Confusion reigns over tuition fee increases.

Byline: Moira Sharkey

PLANS to increase student tuition fees to up to pounds 3,000 per year have received a mixed reaction from universities and colleges in South Wales. The proposals, which were announced this week, are expected to be introduced in England in 2006.

But there is still confusion over what will happen in Wa

es .

Now talks are set to continue between London and Cardiff on whether to give the National Assembly power over student finance. But even if power is devolved, Education Minister Jane Davidson said she has not ruled out introducing top-up fees stating that if additional funding was not found there would be a funding gap between England and Wales.

It is estimated students would leave university with around pounds 15,000 of debt, to pay off after graduation.

Professor James Lusty of the University of Wales College, Newport said the increase in fees, was, ``educationally, socially and economically divisive for future students''.

He feared any increase would deter students furthering their education.

Vice-chancellor of the University of Glamorgan Sir Adrian Webb said: ``We welcome the new proposal to transfer responsibility for student finance to the assembly government, which has already taken its own line over the introduction of Assembly Learning Grants for students.

``Minister Jane Davidson has also indicated she is not in favour of top-up fees.

These two factors may encourage more Welsh students to remain in Wales to follow higher education courses.''

However Dr John Pugh, Pro vice-chancellor of University of Wales, Institute of Cardiff (UWIC), welcomed the Government White Paper, saying it recognised the need for substantial investment.

But he added that it would be fascinating to observe how the issue will be addressed in Wales.

Professor Antony Chapman, chairman of Higher Education Wales (HEW), said: ``HEW fear the introduction of differential fees, even if they follow successful graduation, would further deter potential students from considering higher education as a financial realistic opt i on .''

A spokeswoman for Cardiff University said a statement would be issued once the White Paper had been studied in detail.