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Higher Education: Staffordshire
09 October 2024
Lead MP
Adam Jogee
Debate Type
Adjournment Debate
Tags
NHSEconomyEmployment
Other Contributors: 4
At a Glance
Adam Jogee raised concerns about higher education: staffordshire in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
Adam Jogee, MP for Newcastle-under-Lyme, began by congratulating his neighbour on her birthday and highlighted the importance of Keele University's 75th anniversary. He detailed the university's founding principles in 1949, its current ranking as one of England’s top universities for both teaching and research excellence, and its significant economic impact through employment and local spending. Jogee emphasised Keele's commitment to sustainability and community involvement with initiatives like the 'Keele in Town' programme. He also discussed the importance of accessibility in education, referencing the progress rates for students from different backgrounds and highlighted financial pressures facing young people. The speech concluded by urging the government to support universities as they work towards a sustainable funding model.
Leigh Ingham
Lab
Stafford
Ingham emphasised the importance of connectivity and accessibility for higher education institutions, highlighting the need for a transport network that benefits both students and local economies.
Dave Robertson
Lab
Lichfield
Robertson raised points about ensuring access to opportunities from all backgrounds and communities. He also spoke positively of the decision made by his constituents during an election.
David Williams
Lab
Stoke-on-Trent North
Williams discussed Danny Flynn's work with the YMCA and the importance of ensuring people from diverse backgrounds can access necessary opportunities for their development.
Jim Shannon
DUP
Strangford
Shannon noted the financial pressures on students, including reliance on food banks due to household income levels that affect eligibility for full support loans.
Government Response
Minister Janet Daby congratulated Adam Jogee and other members who contributed to the debate. She highlighted the Government's commitment to supporting universities through a sustainable funding model, ensuring they meet the skill needs of the country. The Minister discussed initiatives such as Steps2Medicine and Staffordshire Children’s University that support disadvantaged student groups. She also mentioned Skills England's role in assessing skills needs and its work on higher education providers like Keele and Staffordshire Universities to ensure alignment with the industrial strategy. Daby noted funding for mental health support, including £15 million from the Office for Students this year, and the importance of degree apprenticeships. The minister concluded by praising both universities’ partnerships with local industries and commended further education providers such as Burton and South Derbyshire College.
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About House of Commons Debates
House of Commons debates take place in the main chamber of the House of Commons. These debates cover a wide range of topics including government policy, legislation, and current affairs. MPs from all parties can participate, question ministers, and hold the government accountable for its decisions.