Keir Starmer has confirmed that Labour will not proceed with its pledge to abolish university tuition fees, citing the need to prioritise funding for the NHS. The Labour leader told BBC Radio 4's Today programme that the state of the economy made it impossible to deliver both commitments.
“Looking at the costing for tuition fees or abolishing them, looking at the money we need to put into the NHS, I’ve taken the decision that we can’t do both,” Starmer said. He acknowledged the decision was difficult but argued that reducing NHS waiting lists was essential for economic recovery.
The move has drawn criticism from Labour's left wing. Starmer defended his position, noting the economic damage since 2020 and stating that “we can’t have both”. Labour insiders said the party would review university funding after seeing what it inherits from the Conservatives, with potential changes to graduate repayment rates and maintenance support.
Former Labour peer Peter Mandelson warned that universities face a serious cash crisis, with vice-chancellors calling for an emergency increase of £2,000 to £3,500 per student per year. David Willetts, the former universities minister, said the cost of inaction is rising, leading to poorer student experiences and risks of universities going bust.
Starmer made the comments while campaigning in Glasgow East with Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar. He stressed the importance of strong Labour representation from Scotland, stating his desire to govern “for Scotland and with Scotland”.
