Prompted by representation from the student body and after lengthy and thorough discussion at Senate, the following position statement was adopted by the University Court:

Higher Education makes vital contributions both socially and economically to the viability of Scotland. It is essential that this crucial national resource is itself viable and accessible to members of society on a just basis.

We are presently at a most important point for the future of the HE sector in this country. Continued under-funding will not engender greater efficiency, but will damage the system: we have reached the point where core activities are coming under threat. Government has recognised that more funding is needed but the means to deliver the funding fairly is still under debate. It is vital that, whatever funding arrangements emerge in England, the Scottish universities are not disadvantaged. Accordingly, the Scottish Executive must provide additional support to Scottish HEIs to ensure their continued competitiveness and their ability to attract and retain the best staff and students. Without this investment it will not be possible to secure the research that will give Scotland its due place in the global knowledge economy.

A fair, inclusive society is one where all have the opportunity to fulfil their educational potential. Participation in HE should be on the basis of academic ability. The University of Glasgow supports the position of the political parties in Scotland that top-up fees should not be introduced here. It urges that any additional funds should not be raised in a way that penalises students, and that adequate support should be available for students who need it.

Universities have made great strides in finding means of maximising income from non-government sources. Through knowledge transfer, one key means by which they contribute to their own finances, they benefit directly Scotland's economic and industrial development. However, as a continuing reflection on the contribution made by the universities - their staff, students and graduates - there should be an increase in the share of public funds for the Higher Education sector and its students.

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First published: 18 February 2004