Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Higher Education Institutions: International Students

Monday 11 December 2023 · 3 questions

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 1 Partly answered 2 Not answered 0

Key points

  • UK has surpassed the target of 600,000 international students with over 689,000 students.
  • International students contribute over 37 billion to the UK economy.
  • Government is working with Sir Steve Smith to maintain attractiveness for international students.

Questions & Answers

Q1 Nia Griffith Lab Llanelli
Context

International student applications have declined, raising concerns about the long-term sustainability of universities. The economic benefit of these students is £37 billion.

Question

What recent assessment has been made of the potential impact of trends in university applications from international students on the long-term sustainability of higher education institutions?

Answer from Robert Halfon

We have surpassed our target with over 600,000 international students. They are a source of income worth £37 billion for universities, benefiting the economy.

Partly answered

Not addressed: The decline in applications and competition from other countries was not addressed directly.

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Q2 Nia Griffith Lab Llanelli
Context

Applications for UK universities are down, but the economic benefit of international students is £37.4 billion. The question addresses competition from other countries and asks about additional strategies.

Question

With applications in this UCAS admissions round down and stiff competition elsewhere, what more can be done to ensure the UK remains attractive for international students?

Answer from Robert Halfon

We are working closely with Sir Steve Smith to diversify and advertise ourselves in different countries. The number of international students is over 689,000 and we have a target of 600,000 annually.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Specific strategies or actions to address the decline were not provided.

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Q3 Matt Western Lab Warwick and Leamington
Context

International students contribute financially to UK universities, which face rising costs. The question seeks assurance that the government remains committed to its target of 600,000 international students annually.

Question

Can you give your assurance that the Government remain robust in their ambition to continue attracting 600,000 international students a year as laid out in the international education strategy?

Answer from Robert Halfon

I am absolutely committed to the target of 600,000 international students. We have surpassed it with over 680,000 students. They are a vital source of income for universities and benefit the economy.

Answered
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