Scots student reps oppose fees

There appears to be some confusion on whether or not student representatives are in favour of tuition fees (Soapbox, THES, May 14).

No one disagrees that the abolition of tuition fees is not the only matter of concern in Scottish higher education; many of us would like to see a wide range of developments in the ways universities and students are funded. We may disagree about what those reforms should be. But, in answer to the simple question "Are you in favour of the early abolition of tuition fees?" We can speak with one resounding voice. The answer is "Yes".

We hope that this has put things in terms clear enough for all to understand. We are asking the politicians to re-establish an important principle, thereafter we can start the examination of additional means of addressing student debt and poverty.

Student presidents of Scotland David Walsh, Aberdeen University Students Representative Council; Gordon McBride, University of Abertay Students' Association; Ed Beal, Dundee University Students' Association; John Fellows, Edinburgh University Students' Association; Kenny Hannah, Glasgow Caledonian University Students' Association; Ewan Lamont, Glasgow University Students' Representative Council; Graeme MacPherson, Heriot-Watt University Students' Association; David Roberts, Napier University Students' Association; Richard Baker, National Union of Students (Scotland); John McGilp, University of Paisley Students' Association; Abigail Davies, Robert Gordons University Students' Association; Nick Bibby, University of St Andrews Students' Association; Nick Manton, Stirling University Students' Association; Paul Thompson, Strathclyde University Students' Association