The House of Commons vote in favour of raising student fees to up to £9000 a year and cutting university funding for teaching has been criticised by Falmouth Labour Party.

A study by the University and College Union found that University College Falmouth is one of 49 universities which will be most severely affected by the Government’s plans. The Universities of Exeter and Plymouth face cuts too, but because they teach more science and other courses as well as arts subjects they face a less steep fall in funding.

Falmouth and Penryn’s shops and businesses, and property owners who let to student tenants, all rely partly on the trade brought to Falmouth by the student population. Therefore if student numbers fall as a result of the Government cut backs to university funding, the local economy in Falmouth and Penryn will suffer as a result.

Wednesday 8 December saw a peaceful and good-natured protest by local students, lecturers, and others against the Government’s plans. About 150 people heard speakers on Falmouth Moor and after walking as a group to Events square.