With yet another Conservative administration under Rishi Sunak about to set sail, it appears that a crisis in public finances is inevitable. Sunak is promising to adhere to the Conservative 2019 manifesto, but this is looking frayed at the edges…
Hidden in the background of extraordinary chaos across the government, the financial markets and fall of the Prime Minister, we learned that school examinations next year will be tightened further to bring the results in line with pre-pandemic levels. This…
With the dust settling in Birmingham after the Conservative conference this week, it seems the horizon is still not clearly visible and is out of focus. Most observers watched the conference horror show unfold with a morbid fascination. The role…
This is a message to all those in the government who claim to know how to manage Higher Education with a high degree of ‘Militant Ignorance’ (*see footnote). The pivotal role of universities should not be denigrated with false premise…
The budget over a week ago sent a shock wave across the UK economy and brought it to the brink of disaster. A substantial intervention by the Bank of England was needed. Interest rates rose sharply and government bonds and…
The Labour party held its annual conference in Liverpool between Sunday and Wednesday of this week. With a mounting crisis for students in Higher Education, it was hoped that the Labour Party would offer some alternative policy as a matter…
On Friday the expected tax cuts and a new budget were released by the chancellor. They represent a major change of direction for the UK economy not seen since the Conservative budget of Anthony Barber in 1972. The ensuing economic…
With the national period of mourning officially over, normal political discourse has resumed. There are now calls for a suitable tribute to mark the Queen’s passing and no doubt many ideas will circulate. There is anticipation that the Carolean era…
This week has seen momentous events for the UK. While prime ministers come and go, the Queen appeared to be a fixed reference point in time. However, she finally passed away this week and heralded a new start as we…
Whatever the results, it is important to remember that the students do not change. It is hoped employers, colleges and universities embrace this and adapt wisely to the shifting sands. The students and their teachers did their best when studying…
