Universities and Scotland - Scottish Affairs Committee - UK Inquiry Tracker

Universities and Scotland

Scottish Affairs Committee Closed Inquiry

Opened: 5 Aug 2020 Closed: 22 Apr 2022 Parliament page

The future funding of Scotland’s universities and fees for overseas and non-EU students will be the subject of this inquiry. The Committee will also use this inquiry as an opportunity to examine the impact policies made in Whitehall will have on Scottish Universities, their students, their employees and on research. … Read more

4 Recommendations

147 Conclusions

1 Report

7 Oral sessions

4 Letters

11 Events

Activity timeline 24 events

16 May
2022

Correspondence

Letter from the Secretary of State for Scotland on the UK Government response to the Universities and Scotland report, dated 10 May 2022

27 Apr
2022

Report published

Fourth Special Report - Universities and Scotland: Government Response to the Committee’s First Report

27 Apr
2022

Correspondence

Letter to the Secretary of State for Scotland on the UK Government response to the Universities and Scotland report, dated 25 April 2022

7 Mar
2022

Correspondence

Letter from the Secretary of State for Scotland, on Government responses to Committee reports, dated 4 March 2022

2 Mar
2022

Correspondence

Letter to the Secretary of State for Scotland on Government responses to Committee reports, dated 21 February 2022

28 May
2021

Report published

First Report - Universities and Scotland

28 May
2021

Informal meeting · Virtual meeting

Committee event

19 May
2021

Formal meeting (private meeting) · Virtual meeting

Committee event

25 Feb
2021

Oral evidence

Oral evidence session

25 Feb
2021

Formal meeting (oral evidence session) · Virtual Meeting

Committee event

2 Feb
2021

Outreach event · Virtual Meeting

Committee event

28 Jan
2021

Oral evidence

Oral evidence session

28 Jan
2021

Formal meeting (oral evidence session) · Virtual meeting

Committee event

13 Jan
2021

Outreach event · Virtual meeting

Committee event

9 Dec
2020

Oral evidence

Oral evidence session

9 Dec
2020

Formal meeting (oral evidence session) · Room 6, Palace of Westminster

Committee event

25 Nov
2020

Oral evidence

Oral evidence session

25 Nov
2020

Formal meeting (oral evidence session) · Room 6, Palace of Westminster

Committee event

11 Nov
2020

Oral evidence

Oral evidence session

11 Nov
2020

Formal meeting (oral evidence session) · Room 6, Palace of Westminster

Committee event

21 Oct
2020

Oral evidence

Oral evidence session

21 Oct
2020

Formal meeting (oral evidence session) · Room 6, Palace of Westminster

Committee event

8 Oct
2020

Oral evidence

Oral evidence session

8 Oct
2020

Formal meeting (oral evidence session) · Room 6, Palace of Westminster

Committee event

Oral evidence sessions 7 sessions

25 Feb 2021

View on parliament.uk

Iain Stewart MP · Office of the Secretary of State for Scotland Rebecca Hackett · Office of the Secretary of State for Scotland

28 Jan 2021

View on parliament.uk

Lauren McNamara · Student Awards Agency Scotland Richard Lochhead MSP · Scottish Government Roddy Macdonald · Scottish Government

9 Dec 2020

View on parliament.uk

Professor Nigel Seaton · Abertay University Professor Tim Bedford · University of Strathclyde Rachel Sandison · University of Glasgow

25 Nov 2020

View on parliament.uk

Professor Chris Pearce · University of Glasgow Professor Katherine Smith · University of Strathclyde Professor Rebecca Lunn MBE · University of Strathclyde

11 Nov 2020

View on parliament.uk

Dr Stuart Fancey · Scottish Funding Council Karen Watt · Scottish Funding Council

21 Oct 2020

View on parliament.uk

Mary Senior · University and College Union Scotland Matt Crilly · NUS Scotland

8 Oct 2020

View on parliament.uk

Alastair Sim · Universities Scotland Dr Vicky Johnson · University of the Highlands and Islands Professor James Conroy · University of Glasgow

Reports 1 report · click to expand

Title	HC No.	Published	Items	Response
First Report - Universities and Scotland	HC 54	28 May 2021	151	Responded

Recommendations & Conclusions

151 results

1 Recommendation

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Although higher education is a devolved competence, reserved UK Government policies—such as foreign affairs, immigration...

Although higher education is a devolved competence, reserved UK Government policies—such as foreign affairs, immigration and research and development— have significant consequences for UK and Scottish universities. We recommend that the UK Government continues to work with the Scottish Government … Read more

Scotland Office

2 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

In mid-2020 insolvency was a very real prospect facing a number of universities in Scotland.

In mid-2020 insolvency was a very real prospect facing a number of universities in Scotland. Both the UK and Scottish Governments should be congratulated on their efforts and significant financial investments into Scottish universities in response to the pandemic. It … Read more

Government Response

Higher Education in Scotland is, for the most part, a devolved responsibility. We recognise that the whole of the UK benefits from stability across Higher Education. We appreciate the importance … Read more

Scotland Office

3 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Public sector funding for higher education in Scotland has reduced by 12% in real terms...

Public sector funding for higher education in Scotland has reduced by 12% in real terms in seven years. In addition, despite the policy of free tuition for Scottish students, and a cap on Scottish student numbers, only 90% of the … Read more

Government Response

In February 2021, the UK Government published an update to the International Education Strategy, recommitting to the ambitions of the original strategy. These ambitions are to sustainably increase international students … Read more

Scotland Office

4 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

EU students paying international student rates can provide a new and potentially lucrative income stream...

EU students paying international student rates can provide a new and potentially lucrative income stream for Scottish universities, though this new income stream may face the same risks posed to fees from international students. Although applications from EU students have … Read more

Government Response

The UK Government is absolutely committed to supporting the UK higher education sector, and to increasing the number of international students and academics that come here. This is demonstrated in … Read more

Scotland Office

5 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Students in Scotland, as with so many groups, faced unprecedented challenges over the course of...

Students in Scotland, as with so many groups, faced unprecedented challenges over the course of the pandemic. Whilst we welcome the investments the Scottish Government has made in student wellbeing and mental health during this period, we have heard evidence … Read more

Government Response

At Spending Review 2021, the UK Government confirmed funding for the Turing Scheme for the next three years, including maintaining total funding for mobilities and delivery of the scheme at … Read more

Scotland Office

6 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Scottish universities are dependent on immigration decisions made at UK-level but have limited opportunities to...

Scottish universities are dependent on immigration decisions made at UK-level but have limited opportunities to influence those decision-making processes. Given that the UK and Scottish Governments both recognise the importance of reflecting Scottish interests in UK immigration policies, the UK … Read more

Government Response

At Spending Review 2021, the UK Government confirmed funding for the Turing Scheme for the next three years, including maintaining total funding for mobilities and delivery of the scheme at … Read more

Scotland Office

7 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Until 17 December 2020, one week before the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement was reached,...

Until 17 December 2020, one week before the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement was reached, the UK Government was reassuring Parliament that UK participation in Erasmus+ was intended to be included within the UK-EU deal. Given that Erasmus+ disproportionally benefited … Read more

Government Response

The 2021 Spending Review set out the government’s plan to cement the UK as a global science and technology superpower and demonstrates our commitment to delivering on the R&D Roadmap … Read more

Scotland Office

8 Recommendation

First Report - Universities and Sc…

We note with regret however that the Turing scheme will not—as currently envisaged—support inward placements...

We note with regret however that the Turing scheme will not—as currently envisaged—support inward placements to the UK. As the Government recognises, as well as providing Scottish universities and local economies with an important income source, inward placements support the … Read more

Scotland Office

9 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

The Scottish Government has indicated a desire to remain in the Erasmus+ programme.

The Scottish Government has indicated a desire to remain in the Erasmus+ programme. Should they decide to continue down this path and be willing to cover the associated costs, and should the EU consent to Scottish participation, the UK Government … Read more

Government Response

The UK Government has agreed to associate with Horizon Europe through the Trade and Cooperation Agreement reached with the EU in December 2020. The UK disappointingly there have been persistent … Read more

Scotland Office

10 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

The UK Government should be praised for its UK Research and Development Roadmap, especially the...

The UK Government should be praised for its UK Research and Development Roadmap, especially the commitment to reach 2.4% of GDP spend in this area, which has been extensively welcomed by academic institutions in Scotland. The UK Government should ensure … Read more

Government Response

UK visa fees are broadly in line with our competitors across a range of visa types. Visa products are, however, difficult to compare because visa offers including benefits and entitlements … Read more

Scotland Office

11 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

The work of Scottish universities in combating covid-19 has been nothing short of remarkable.

The work of Scottish universities in combating covid-19 has been nothing short of remarkable. Going forward, the academic outputs of Scottish universities will not only support our economic recovery following the pandemic but also bolster the UK’s standing in the … Read more

Government Response

We have now launched our new global, points-based immigration system, including most recently, the Graduate route, and have extensively promoted these new immigration routes throughout the EU and the rest … Read more

Scotland Office

12 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

The Horizon programme has been, and will continue to be, vital to Scottish academic research.

The Horizon programme has been, and will continue to be, vital to Scottish academic research. It aids Scotland’s universities in their quest to tackle the biggest global challenges. We praise the UK Government for ensuring the UK’s continued participation; it … Read more

Government Response

The UK Government has agreed to associate with Horizon Europe through the Trade and Cooperation Agreement reached with the EU in December 2020. The UK Government stands ready to formalise … Read more

Scotland Office

13 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Scottish universities are inherently international institutions; international collaborations play a big part in their successes.

Scottish universities are inherently international institutions; international collaborations play a big part in their successes. In addition, Scottish universities act as much-valued international hubs in their local communities, bringing important cultural benefits. Scottish universities’ internationalisation agenda should therefore be supported. … Read more

Government Response

Higher Education in Scotland is, for the most part, a devolved responsibility. We recognise that the whole of the UK benefits from stability across Higher Education. We appreciate the importance … Read more

Scotland Office

14 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Academic institutions in Scotland depend on partnerships and connections with institutions across the EU.

Academic institutions in Scotland depend on partnerships and connections with institutions across the EU. That includes academics who come from the EU to work in Scotland, who often specialise in highly technical areas which can be difficult to recruit from … Read more

Government Response

Higher Education in Scotland is, for the most part, a devolved responsibility. We recognise that the whole of the UK benefits from stability across Higher Education. We appreciate the importance … Read more

Scotland Office

15 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Higher public sector spending on higher education in Scotland compared to the rest of the...

Higher public sector spending on higher education in Scotland compared to the rest of the UK is predominately a consequence of the Scottish Government policy of free tuition for Scottish students (and until recently EU students). Scotland is the only … Read more

Scotland Office

16 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

As noted by Audit Scotland, the ability of universities in other parts of the UK...

As noted by Audit Scotland, the ability of universities in other parts of the UK to charge higher fees allows them to generate increased income, which can be invested in maintaining or improving what they can offer to prospective students … Read more

Scotland Office

17 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Although there is no formal cap on the number of Scottish students who can study...

Although there is no formal cap on the number of Scottish students who can study at Scottish universities, in order to budget effectively, the Scottish Government predefines the funding it provides to Scottish universities each year to cover the cost … Read more

Scotland Office

18 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

As students pay for their own tuition in other parts of the UK, a similar...

As students pay for their own tuition in other parts of the UK, a similar cap does not exist elsewhere (other than for a temporary period during the covid-19 pandemic).29 It was reported in 2020 that, for the previous academic … Read more

Scotland Office

19 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

There are six main income sources for Scotland’s universities: • Tuition fees; • Funding grants;...

There are six main income sources for Scotland’s universities: • Tuition fees; • Funding grants; • Research grants; • Investment income; • Donations and endowments; and • Other income (including commercial)31

Scotland Office

20 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Audit Scotland’s 2019 report found that tuition fees were the single largest source of university...

Audit Scotland’s 2019 report found that tuition fees were the single largest source of university income in 2017–18.32 This has remained the case in subsequent years.33 The chart below, which relates to 2017–18 (from Audit Scotland’s 2019 report), shows that … Read more

Scotland Office

21 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Scottish Funding Council (SFC) grants made up the second highest income source in 2017–18.

Scottish Funding Council (SFC) grants made up the second highest income source in 2017–18. This has also remained the case in subsequent years.35 Karen Watt, Chief Executive of the Scottish Funding Council, told us that although Scottish Funding Council funding … Read more

Scotland Office

22 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Audit Scotland found that although Scottish Government funding to the SFC for universities increased by...

Audit Scotland found that although Scottish Government funding to the SFC for universities increased by 0.1% in cash terms from £1.116 billion in 2014–15 to £1.117 billion in 2017–18, this equated to a real terms reduction of 5%.38 Taken together … Read more

Scotland Office

23 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Although total income for the sector as a whole increased by 3% between 2014 and...

Although total income for the sector as a whole increased by 3% between 2014 and 2018, total income reduced at nine universities, including five modern universities, over that period.42 The chart below (from Audit Scotland’s 2019 report) demonstrates the different … Read more

Scotland Office

24 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Just as there are large disparities in the importance of different incomes streams to Scottish...

Just as there are large disparities in the importance of different incomes streams to Scottish universities, the same disparities exist—and have existed for a long time—in the financial health of institutions. Audit Scotland noted pre-pandemic that: While the sector overall … Read more

Scotland Office

25 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Audit Scotland also highlighted that six of Scotland’s universities had reported deficits every year since...

Audit Scotland also highlighted that six of Scotland’s universities had reported deficits every year since 2014–15; more than half of all Scottish universities were in deficit in 2017–18; and that the position was worse in 2018 than in 2014–15 for … Read more

Scotland Office

26 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

They also found that ‘ancient’ universities were generally better placed to withstand these pressures, because...

They also found that ‘ancient’ universities were generally better placed to withstand these pressures, because of their ability to generate income from other sources and the balances in their reserves, but they faced strong competition from other universities in the … Read more

Scotland Office

27 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

In the early months of the covid-19 pandemic there was a great deal of concern...

In the early months of the covid-19 pandemic there was a great deal of concern around the financial impact it would have on university finances. Concern was not only confined to the universities already struggling and with deficits and low … Read more

Scotland Office

28 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

The covid-19 pandemic affected the higher education sector in Scotland to such an extent that...

The covid-19 pandemic affected the higher education sector in Scotland to such an extent that a number of interventions were required by both the UK and Scottish Governments in 2020 and 2021. These are detailed in the table below (up … Read more The covid-19 pandemic affected the higher education sector in Scotland to such an extent that a number of interventions were required by both the UK and Scottish Governments in 2020 and 2021. These are detailed in the table below (up to and including April 2021). 45 Audit Scotland, Finances of Scottish universities, September 2019, page 9 46 Audit Scotland, Finances of Scottish universities, September 2019, page 18 47 Audit Scotland, Finances of Scottish universities, September 2019, page 19 48 Audit Scotland, Finances of Scottish universities, September 2019, para 39 49 Audit Scotland, Finances of Scottish universities, September 2019, page 17 50 Scottish Parliament, The impact of Coronavirus (COVID-19) on university funding in Scotland (23 July 2020), p 11 51 Scottish Parliament, The impact of Coronavirus (COVID-19) on university funding in Scotland (23 July 2020), p 3 Universities and Scotland 15 Date of Intervention Detail of intervention announcement made by April 2020 UK Government A UK-wide (but not higher education-specific) Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme. The scheme enabled any employer in the UK to seek a grant to cover 80% of the salary of retained (but furloughed) workers up to a total of £2,500 per person per month.52 April 2020 Scottish £5 million emergency financial support for Government students facing hardship as a result of the pandemic. £2.2 million of this was allocated to the Higher Education Discretionary Fund and made available to colleges and universities.53 May 2020 UK Government A support package for universities and students which included: – Temporary student numbers controls – An additional 10,000 student places at the discretion of the UK Government (with 5,000 of those ring-fenced for nursing, midwifery or allied health courses) – £100 million of funding brought forward for research – £2.6 billion of tuition fee payments brought forward The package did not include any additional funding but brought forward some existing income strea Show less

Scotland Office

29 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

In terms of the impact of the UK Government interventions, and collaboration between the two...

In terms of the impact of the UK Government interventions, and collaboration between the two Governments, we were told by Karen Watt, Chief Executive of the Scottish Funding Council, that: 66 HMG, UK Government to fund international Covid-19 studies in … Read more

Scotland Office

30 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

We heard however from Professor Rebecca Lunn, University of Strathclyde, that each university had taken...

We heard however from Professor Rebecca Lunn, University of Strathclyde, that each university had taken a different line on whether to furlough staff because the information coming out of UK Government departments and UKRI was “completely different for months”.75 She … Read more

Scotland Office

31 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Another criticism we heard of UK Government/UKRI support packages, including from Professor Chris Pearce, University...

Another criticism we heard of UK Government/UKRI support packages, including from Professor Chris Pearce, University of Glasgow,80 Professor Rebecca Lunn, University of Strathclyde81 and Mary Senior, University and College Union Scotland,82 was that they were too prescriptive and too tied … Read more

Scotland Office

32 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

By 17 February 2021 the forecast operating deficit for the higher education sector in academic...

By 17 February 2021 the forecast operating deficit for the higher education sector in academic year 2020–21 had improved significantly and was estimated to be around £50 million83 (compared to the £450–500 million expected in July 202084). The Times reported … Read more

Scotland Office

33 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Universities Scotland argue however that level of public funding invested in teaching and research in...

Universities Scotland argue however that level of public funding invested in teaching and research in Scotland’s universities has been unsustainable for a number of years, that and the pandemic has further exposed and exacerbated this financial vulnerability.86 Likewise, Iain Stewart … Read more

Scotland Office

34 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

The ongoing effects of the covid-19 pandemic will have financial implications for the foreseeable future,88...

The ongoing effects of the covid-19 pandemic will have financial implications for the foreseeable future,88 with Minister Lochhead, Scottish Government, recognising that there was “more to be done”89 to support universities. The Scottish Funding Council has identified some of the … Read more

Scotland Office

35 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

The Scottish Parliament research service, SPICe, has noted that whilst the Scottish Budget, announced on...

The Scottish Parliament research service, SPICe, has noted that whilst the Scottish Budget, announced on 28 January 2021, did not deliver the £200 million funding increase called for by the sector, the capital budget increased by £4.5 million, the resource … Read more

Scotland Office

36 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Following the UK Budget on 3 March 2021, the Scottish Government made the announcement on...

Following the UK Budget on 3 March 2021, the Scottish Government made the announcement on 24 March 2021 that teaching funding would increase by 8.1% to £1,112.4 million, which would fund “additional places created following increased applications from school leavers.”92 … Read more

Scotland Office

37 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

It is not yet clear the extent to which this additional funding—along with positive indicators...

It is not yet clear the extent to which this additional funding—along with positive indicators regarding sustained international student numbers—will support Scottish 86 Universities Scotland, The Scottish Government’s 2021/22 budget is critical for Scottish HE (December 2020) 87 Q248 88 … Read more

Scotland Office

38 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

In mid-2020 insolvency was a very real prospect facing a number of universities in Scotland.

In mid-2020 insolvency was a very real prospect facing a number of universities in Scotland. Both the UK and Scottish Governments should be congratulated on their efforts and significant financial investments into Scottish universities in response to the pandemic. It … Read more

Scotland Office

39 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Universities Scotland have noted that a strong component of Scottish universities’ internationalisation strategy has been...

Universities Scotland have noted that a strong component of Scottish universities’ internationalisation strategy has been their drive to increase the number of international students: each year more than 58,000 international students from 180 countries (including from the EU) study in … Read more

Scotland Office

40 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

According to NUS Scotland, some international students are paying £20,000 a year to study at...

According to NUS Scotland, some international students are paying £20,000 a year to study at Scottish universities.98 Audit Scotland found that in 2016–17, on average, Scottish universities recovered 138.2% of the full cost of non-publicly-funded teaching, mainly by teaching non-EU … Read more

Scotland Office

41 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

The Scottish Parliament has identified that 57% of all tuition fee income received by Scottish...

The Scottish Parliament has identified that 57% of all tuition fee income received by Scottish universities was derived from international (non-EU) students in 2018–19: 94 Q187 95 Universities Scotland, ‘Internationally Scottish: Creating global communities’, accessed 24 January 2021 96 Scottish … Read more

Government Response

Higher Education in Scotland is, for the most part, a devolved responsibility. We recognise that the whole of the UK benefits from stability across Higher Education. We appreciate the importance … Read more

Scotland Office

42 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

The Scottish Funding Council says it is clear that universities in Scotland “need” international students...

The Scottish Funding Council says it is clear that universities in Scotland “need” international students as a source of income in order to remain financially sustainable and to support other areas of their operation.103 Throughout our inquiry we have heard … Read more

Government Response

Higher Education in Scotland is, for the most part, a devolved responsibility. We recognise that the whole of the UK benefits from stability across Higher Education. We appreciate the importance … Read more

Scotland Office

43 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Professor James Conroy, Dean for Global Engagement (Europe) and Vice Principal Emeritus at the University...

Professor James Conroy, Dean for Global Engagement (Europe) and Vice Principal Emeritus at the University of Glasgow told us that “we are increasingly dependent on international student fee income not just to plug the gap, but to create the facilities, … Read more

Government Response

Higher Education in Scotland is, for the most part, a devolved responsibility. We recognise that the whole of the UK benefits from stability across Higher Education. We appreciate the importance … Read more

Scotland Office

44 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Rebecca Hackett, Office of the Secretary of State for Scotland, told us that the level...

Rebecca Hackett, Office of the Secretary of State for Scotland, told us that the level of reliance Scottish universities have on international student fees varies from university to university but that a loss of international fees has a “big impact” … Read more

Government Response

Higher Education in Scotland is, for the most part, a devolved responsibility. We recognise that the whole of the UK benefits from stability across Higher Education. We appreciate the importance … Read more

Scotland Office

45 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Richard Lochhead MSP, Minister for Further Education, Higher Education and Science, Scottish Government, recommended that:...

Richard Lochhead MSP, Minister for Further Education, Higher Education and Science, Scottish Government, recommended that: We now have to look at whether [Scotland’s universities] are sustainable going forward, and whether we are overdependent on international 102 Scottish Parliament, The impact … Read more

Government Response

Higher Education in Scotland is, for the most part, a devolved responsibility. We recognise that the whole of the UK benefits from stability across Higher Education. We appreciate the importance … Read more

Scotland Office

46 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Rt Hon Alister Jack MP, Secretary of State for Scotland, also recognised the reliance of...

Rt Hon Alister Jack MP, Secretary of State for Scotland, also recognised the reliance of Scottish universities on international students: Scotland’s education sector should, in the first instance, exist to support Scottish and [rest of the UK] domiciled students and … Read more

Government Response

Higher Education in Scotland is, for the most part, a devolved responsibility. We recognise that the whole of the UK benefits from stability across Higher Education. We appreciate the importance … Read more

Scotland Office

47 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

In early 2020 there were major fears that international students would stay away from UK...

In early 2020 there were major fears that international students would stay away from UK universities due to the pandemic. In July 2020 there were forecasts that 12% to 61% of Chinese students (who make up the biggest single contingent … Read more

Government Response

Higher Education in Scotland is, for the most part, a devolved responsibility. We recognise that the whole of the UK benefits from stability across Higher Education. We appreciate the importance … Read more

Scotland Office

48 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Universities Scotland made the point of the pandemic has “exposed just how dependent the Scottish...

Universities Scotland made the point of the pandemic has “exposed just how dependent the Scottish higher education sector now is on international student fee income to subsidise publicly-funded activities of teaching undergraduate Scottish [ … ] students and to underpin … Read more

Government Response

Higher Education in Scotland is, for the most part, a devolved responsibility. We recognise that the whole of the UK benefits from stability across Higher Education. We appreciate the importance … Read more

Scotland Office

49 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

The current picture regarding international student numbers looks much more encouraging than it did in...

The current picture regarding international student numbers looks much more encouraging than it did in mid-2020. UCAS data117 from 18 February 2021 shows that applications to Scottish universities for the next academic year by non-EU international students has—despite many expectations … Read more

Government Response

Higher Education in Scotland is, for the most part, a devolved responsibility. We recognise that the whole of the UK benefits from stability across Higher Education. We appreciate the importance … Read more

Scotland Office

50 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Although international students do not seem to be staying away from Scotland like many had...

Although international students do not seem to be staying away from Scotland like many had feared, commenters have noted that the pandemic has demonstrated just how vulnerable the current model is.120 Richard Lochhead MSP told us that “it has been … Read more

Government Response

Higher Education in Scotland is, for the most part, a devolved responsibility. We recognise that the whole of the UK benefits from stability across Higher Education. We appreciate the importance … Read more

Scotland Office

51 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

A further potential risk to international student numbers in Scotland is, as identified by the...

A further potential risk to international student numbers in Scotland is, as identified by the RSE Young Academy of Scotland, the impact of—and the perception abroad of— UK immigration policies. They view this risk as having already materialised, and give … Read more

Government Response

Higher Education in Scotland is, for the most part, a devolved responsibility. We recognise that the whole of the UK benefits from stability across Higher Education. We appreciate the importance … Read more

Scotland Office

52 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Public sector funding for higher education in Scotland has reduced by 12% in real terms...

Public sector funding for higher education in Scotland has reduced by 12% in real terms in seven years. In addition, despite the policy of free tuition for Scottish students, and a cap on Scottish student numbers, only 90% of the … Read more

Government Response

Higher Education in Scotland is, for the most part, a devolved responsibility. We recognise that the whole of the UK benefits from stability across Higher Education. We appreciate the importance … Read more

Scotland Office

53 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Under EU rules on freedom of movement, European students studying in another EU member state...

Under EU rules on freedom of movement, European students studying in another EU member state had to be given the same access to higher education as local students. This meant that when the UK was part of the European Union, … Read more

Government Response

Higher Education in Scotland is, for the most part, a devolved responsibility. We recognise that the whole of the UK benefits from stability across Higher Education. We appreciate the importance … Read more

Scotland Office

54 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Following the UK’s exit from the EU, and the end of the UK-EU Transition Period,...

Following the UK’s exit from the EU, and the end of the UK-EU Transition Period, 2020–21 will be the last academic year in which EU students will be eligible to apply to have their tuition fees paid for by the … Read more

Government Response

Higher Education in Scotland is, for the most part, a devolved responsibility. We recognise that the whole of the UK benefits from stability across Higher Education. We appreciate the importance … Read more

Scotland Office

55 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Despite the fact that the SAAS will still usually cover the cost of EU student...

Despite the fact that the SAAS will still usually cover the cost of EU student tuition fees in Scotland for 2020–21, they have already seen a 15% fall in the number of placed university applicants from EU students for that … Read more

Government Response

Higher Education in Scotland is, for the most part, a devolved responsibility. We recognise that the whole of the UK benefits from stability across Higher Education. We appreciate the importance … Read more

Scotland Office

56 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

For 2021–22, as EU students will now need to pay international student fees and immigration...

For 2021–22, as EU students will now need to pay international student fees and immigration costs, Scottish universities were expecting in December 2020 an 80% drop in EU student numbers.132 However, UCAS data from 18 February 2021 shows that applications … Read more

Scotland Office

57 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Not only are the international student rates that EU students will now be paying to...

Not only are the international student rates that EU students will now be paying to Scottish universities higher than the amount Scottish universities currently receive for EU students from SAAS, but they are also higher than the rates students from … Read more

Scotland Office

58 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Throughout our inquiry we also heard about the non-financial benefits EU students provide to Scottish...

Throughout our inquiry we also heard about the non-financial benefits EU students provide to Scottish universities, including that: • EU students enrich campuses by “creating multinational, multicultural learning environments”, which is of “tremendous benefit to our home students in Scotland”.138 … Read more

Scotland Office

59 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

In the view of Mary Senior, University and College Union Scotland, things like a “hostile...

In the view of Mary Senior, University and College Union Scotland, things like a “hostile environment and [ … ] draconian immigration system” all impact on the ability of Scottish universities to attract EU students.142 Universities UK believes the UK … Read more

Scotland Office

60 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Universities UK has outlined the steps they believe the UK Government should take in order...

Universities UK has outlined the steps they believe the UK Government should take in order to help stabilise EU/European Economic Area (EEA) student demand. These include: • “Improving and extending the Study UK campaign into key markets in Europe by … Read more

Scotland Office

61 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Minister Lochhead told us that the Scottish Government are looking at how they can maintain...

Minister Lochhead told us that the Scottish Government are looking at how they can maintain a European presence on Scottish campuses and have given a commitment to look at the idea of extra scholarships targeted at European countries.146

Scotland Office

62 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

EU students paying international student rates can provide a new and potentially lucrative income stream...

EU students paying international student rates can provide a new and potentially lucrative income stream for Scottish universities, though this new income stream may face the same risks posed to fees from international students. Although applications from EU students have … Read more EU students paying international student rates can provide a new and potentially lucrative income stream for Scottish universities, though this new income stream may face the same risks posed to fees from international students. Although applications from EU students have dropped by about 40% for 2021–22 (that year being the first year that EU students will pay the new rates), this is a lower drop than many in the sector had feared, and Scottish universities will now receive four to five times more income per EU student than was previously the case. That said, it is important that, following Brexit, Scotland is still able to attract the brightest and best from the EU. This is not 139 Q81 140 Q140 [Rachel Sandison, University of Glasgow] 141 Q126 [Rebecca Lunn, University of Strathclyde] 142 Q42 143 “Government must act now or risk losing European students for years to come”, Universities UK, 5 October 2020 144 “Government must act now or risk losing European students for years to come”, Universities UK, 5 October 2020 145 “Government must act now or risk losing European students for years to come”, Universities UK, 5 October 2020 146 Q207 Universities and Scotland 27 only because EU students tend to gravitate towards vital STEM subjects (which can otherwise be difficult to recruit for), but also because EU students are more likely to stay on in Scottish academia/research once they graduate than other international students. These students can play a key role in our economic recovery following the pandemic. The UK Government should launch a new or expanded scholarship scheme to encourage the most talented EU students to study in the UK and Scotland. This would help heal UK-EU divides following Brexit, assist in combating falling EU student numbers in Scotland and provide a new pathway to attract and retain the brightest and best from the EU. In addition, the UK Government should increase funding to Study UK in order to increase their capacity to target EU students wh Show less

Scotland Office

63 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

During our inquiry we heard how the covid-19 pandemic has negatively affected university students.

During our inquiry we heard how the covid-19 pandemic has negatively affected university students. They spent most of 2020 and the first months of 2021 working remotely, with universities only permitted to have 5% of their total students on campus … Read more

Scotland Office

64 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

As Matt Crilly, President of NUS Scotland, pointed out to us, an important factor is...

As Matt Crilly, President of NUS Scotland, pointed out to us, an important factor is that the areas of the economy worst hit by the pandemic—particularly the hospitality sector—are the same areas of the economy that students typically rely on … Read more

Scotland Office

65 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

In January 2021, we met with university students as part of an outreach event.

In January 2021, we met with university students as part of an outreach event. Feedback from them included: “Even before the pandemic there were issues around the cost of living; student loan covers accommodation not food. The impact of the … Read more In January 2021, we met with university students as part of an outreach event. Feedback from them included: “Even before the pandemic there were issues around the cost of living; student loan covers accommodation not food. The impact of the pandemic on this is that there are now even fewer jobs available for students, especially in the hospitality sector.” “We have had difficulties accessing the computer hardware and software we need in order to complete degrees from home.” “The disabled student allowance is so hard to access that eligible people are not applying.” “For many PhD students our funding doesn’t include childcare or maternity leave.” 147 Scottish Parliament, COVID-19: Scotland’s colleges and universities (1 March 2021), p 3 148 Scottish Parliament, COVID-19: Scotland’s colleges and universities (1 March 2021), p 9 149 Q36 150 “Covid student chaos: Paying £30k a year and begging security for food”, BBC News, 29 September 2020 151 “Covid: Student anger over ‘junk’ food parcels in isolation”, BBC News, 11 October 2020; “Self-isolating Edinburgh students ‘going hungry’ as food delivered late”, The Scotsman, 29 September 2020 152 “Why students deserve better during this pandemic”, University of Stirling Newspaper, 14 October 2020 Universities and Scotland 29 “The cost of accommodation can be high for places we can’t use and can’t leave. Some universities have offered rebates for accommodation, but this doesn’t help students in private accommodation.” “Late announcements from the Government on lockdowns and restrictions have made matters worse.” “Working on laptops on beds is bad in so many aspects. Offered no help with homeworking.” “Mental health support has a long waiting list. This could be because everyone with a concern goes straight onto the list, rather than better triaging at an earlier stage to ensure that people are being directed to the right services.” Digital transition Show less

Scotland Office

66 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Commenting on the transition to digital working, Karen Watt, Chief Executive of the Scottish Funding...

Commenting on the transition to digital working, Karen Watt, Chief Executive of the Scottish Funding Council, made the point to us that not all students are digital native and that “alongside whatever shifts we see, [the SFC] have to deal … Read more

Scotland Office

67 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Mental health has been flagged to us as a particular area of concern.

Mental health has been flagged to us as a particular area of concern. We have heard that students tend to suffer poor mental health at higher rates than the rest of the adult population.154 Matt Crilly, President of NUS Scotland, … Read more

Scotland Office

68 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Now, with the effects of covid-19, NUS Scotland have found that students’ mental health has...

Now, with the effects of covid-19, NUS Scotland have found that students’ mental health has further declined.157 For example, students in self-isolation, in halls of residence, trying to come to terms with where they are, what they are trying to … Read more

Scotland Office

69 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Alastair Sim, Director of Universities Scotland, told the Committee that the pandemic had also “been...

Alastair Sim, Director of Universities Scotland, told the Committee that the pandemic had also “been an incredibly difficult time for staff”.160 Dr Vicky Johnson stated that: [ … ] a lot of the senior management teams [ … ] are … Read more

Scotland Office

70 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Richard Lochhead MSP, Minister for Further Education, Higher Education and Science, told us that: We...

Richard Lochhead MSP, Minister for Further Education, Higher Education and Science, told us that: We have recognised that the pandemic is making life so difficult for many students. [ … ] we have been [ … ] working really hard … Read more

Scotland Office

71 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

In terms of lessons learnt from 2020, the Minister went on to say: We set...

In terms of lessons learnt from 2020, the Minister went on to say: We set up a taskforce [ … ] to look at the hardship issues and hardship funds, and [ … ] we also want to set up … Read more

Scotland Office

72 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

On 25 February 2021, the Scottish Government announced an additional £4.4million to provide further mental...

On 25 February 2021, the Scottish Government announced an additional £4.4million to provide further mental health and wellbeing services to college students and staff as they deal with the impact of the pandemic, but this funding was not made available … Read more

Scotland Office

73 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Students in Scotland, as with so many groups, faced unprecedented challenges over the course of...

Students in Scotland, as with so many groups, faced unprecedented challenges over the course of the pandemic. Whilst we welcome the investments the Scottish Government has made in student wellbeing and mental health during this period, we have heard evidence … Read more

Scotland Office

74 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Each year more than 58,000 international students from 180 countries study in Scotland.167 In 2018,...

Each year more than 58,000 international students from 180 countries study in Scotland.167 In 2018, this made up about a quarter of the total student population.168 Professor Chris Pearce, University of Glasgow, told us that international students “enrich the diversity … Read more

Scotland Office

75 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

In the view of Karen Watt, Chief Executive of the Scottish Funding Council, the attractiveness...

In the view of Karen Watt, Chief Executive of the Scottish Funding Council, the attractiveness of Scotland’s universities to prospective international students will depend a lot on what’s going on in other counties.172 In particular she pointed out that the … Read more In the view of Karen Watt, Chief Executive of the Scottish Funding Council, the attractiveness of Scotland’s universities to prospective international students will depend a lot on what’s going on in other counties.172 In particular she pointed out that the way in which counties deal with the pandemic will affect how people think about their next journeys.173 Iain Stewart MP, Minister for Scotland, was also of the view that the higher 166 “New student mental health funding”, NUS Scotland, 25 February 2021; Scottish Parliament (Motions, Questions and Answers: February 2021), ‘Question S5W-35512: Education, Communities and Justice’, accessed 8 April 2021 167 Universities Scotland, ‘Internationally Scottish: Creating global communities’, accessed 24 January 2021 168 Scottish Government, The Impact of International Students in Scotland (March 2018), 3 169 Q127 170 Q167 171 Q135 172 Q84 173 Q84 32 Universities and Scotland education sector was a “competitive place” as “all universities will want to attract students from right around the world” and so “we have to be on our toes to make sure that we do not just rely on past successes to guarantee future success”.174 Minister Lochhead told us that: I think it is very important that we remain an attractive destination for international students, and that means that, following Brexit, we have the challenge of getting that message across to the international community. As Scotland, we are doing what we can and will continue to do that, to promote Scottish brands and the fact that Scotland is an open, welcoming and internationalist country that wants to stay at the heart of Europe and, therefore, we want that to be reflected in students and researchers from Europe, in particular, continuing to come to Scottish institutions so that the best brains in Europe are still attracted to come to work, study and live in Scotland. The UK Government have a role there, because immigration policy, the cost of visas and how Horizon will work Show less

Scotland Office

76 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

During our inquiry a number of witnesses, including Minister Lochhead, spoke to us about the...

During our inquiry a number of witnesses, including Minister Lochhead, spoke to us about the importance to prospective international students of making sure that immigration policies—which are reserved to the UK Government—are as streamlined and as simple as possible.176 In … Read more

Government Response

The UK Government is absolutely committed to supporting the UK higher education sector, and to increasing the number of international students and academics that come here. This is demonstrated in … Read more

Scotland Office

77 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

The duration of the Student visa depends on course length but, at degree level, can...

The duration of the Student visa depends on course length but, at degree level, can last for up to five years.180 It usually costs £348 to apply for a Student visa from outside the UK or £475 to extend or … Read more

Government Response

The UK Government is absolutely committed to supporting the UK higher education sector, and to increasing the number of international students and academics that come here. This is demonstrated in … Read more

Scotland Office

78 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

The UK Government has also announced, as recommended by our predecessor Committee,185 a new Graduate...

The UK Government has also announced, as recommended by our predecessor Committee,185 a new Graduate visa route—initially piloted in Scotland with great success186—which will open for applications from 1 July 2021. This will allow undergraduates to remain in the UK … Read more

Government Response

The UK Government is absolutely committed to supporting the UK higher education sector, and to increasing the number of international students and academics that come here. This is demonstrated in … Read more

Scotland Office

79 Recommendation

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Our predecessor Committee’s Report from July 2018 on Immigration and Scotland found that: The UK...

Our predecessor Committee’s Report from July 2018 on Immigration and Scotland found that: The UK and Scottish Governments both recognise the importance of reflecting Scottish interests in immigration policy, but it appears that current mechanisms do not adequately enable this … Read more

Scotland Office

80 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Richard Lochhead MSP, Scottish Minister for Further Education, Higher Education and Science, told us that:...

Richard Lochhead MSP, Scottish Minister for Further Education, Higher Education and Science, told us that: We do work with the UK Government, and the UK Government have been speaking to us. There will be lots more discussions because these are … Read more

Government Response

Higher Education in Scotland is, for the most part, a devolved responsibility. We recognise that the whole of the UK benefits from stability across Higher Education. We appreciate the importance … Read more

Scotland Office

81 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Scottish universities are dependent on immigration decisions made at UK-level but have limited opportunities to...

Scottish universities are dependent on immigration decisions made at UK-level but have limited opportunities to influence those decision-making processes. Given that the UK and Scottish Governments both recognise the importance of reflecting Scottish interests in UK immigration policies, the UK … Read more

Government Response

We shall submit our response to the Committee’s Report on Immigration and Scotland shortly.

Scotland Office

82 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Erasmus+ is the EU programme for education, training, youth and sport.195 Between 2014 and 2018...

Erasmus+ is the EU programme for education, training, youth and sport.195 Between 2014 and 2018 4,846 Erasmus+ grants were awarded to UK organisations, worth around €680 million and Erasmus+ funding has supported more than 128,000 UK participants.196 The RSE Young … Read more

Government Response

At Spending Review 2021, the UK Government confirmed funding for the Turing Scheme for the next three years, including maintaining total funding for mobilities and delivery of the scheme at … Read more

Scotland Office

83 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Rachel Sandison, University of Glasgow, was equally complimentary of Erasmus+ in her evidence, telling us...

Rachel Sandison, University of Glasgow, was equally complimentary of Erasmus+ in her evidence, telling us that: 193 Q209 194 Q210 195 Erasmus+, ‘About Erasmus+’, accessed 24 January 2021 196 Erasmus+, ‘About Erasmus+’, accessed 24 January 2021 197 RSE Young Academy … Read more

Government Response

At Spending Review 2021, the UK Government confirmed funding for the Turing Scheme for the next three years, including maintaining total funding for mobilities and delivery of the scheme at … Read more

Scotland Office

84 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Unlike the EU Horizon Programme, the UK decided not to participate in Erasmus+ following the...

Unlike the EU Horizon Programme, the UK decided not to participate in Erasmus+ following the end of the UK-EU Transition Period. The Government said this was because Erasmus+ was “extremely expensive”.199 This was despite the Chancellor of the Duchy of … Read more

Government Response

At Spending Review 2021, the UK Government confirmed funding for the Turing Scheme for the next three years, including maintaining total funding for mobilities and delivery of the scheme at … Read more

Scotland Office

85 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

On 26 December 2020, two days after the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement was reached,...

On 26 December 2020, two days after the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement was reached, the UK Government announced a new scheme for students to study and work abroad that would “replace the UK’s participation in Erasmus+”.202 Along with the … Read more On 26 December 2020, two days after the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement was reached, the UK Government announced a new scheme for students to study and work abroad that would “replace the UK’s participation in Erasmus+”.202 Along with the announcement, the Government said: • The scheme will provide funding [£110 million203] for around 35,000 students in universities, colleges and schools to go on placements and exchanges overseas, starting in September 2021. • The scheme will target students from disadvantaged backgrounds and areas which did not previously have many students benefiting from Erasmus+, making life-changing opportunities accessible to everyone across the country. • The scheme will provide similar opportunities for students to study and work abroad as the Erasmus+ programme but it will include countries across the world and aims to deliver greater value for money to taxpayers. • UK organisations will be invited to bid into the scheme in early 2021. Successful applications will receive funding for administering the scheme and students taking part will receive grants to help them with the costs of their international experience. 198 Q149 199 “Why has the UK ditched participation in Erasmus+?”, University World News, 1 January 2021 200 Oral evidence taken before the Committee on the Future Relationship with the European Union on 17 December 2020, HC (2019–21) 203, Q1076 [Hilary Benn] 201 Oral evidence taken before the Committee on the Future Relationship with the European Union on 11 March 2020, HC (2019–21) 203, Q51 [Jane Stevenson] 202 “New Turing scheme to support thousands of students to study and work abroad”, HM Government, 26 December 2020 203 HMG, ‘New £110m Truing Scheme to support thousands of UK students to study and work abroad’, accessed 15 April 2021 36 Universities and Scotland • The benefits of the exchanges to schools and colleges will be assessed and the learnings used to build on future schemes. Funding decisions for subsequent yea Show less

Government Response

At Spending Review 2021, the UK Government confirmed funding for the Turing Scheme for the next three years, including maintaining total funding for mobilities and delivery of the scheme at … Read more

Scotland Office

86 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

By way of comparison, Erasmus+ funding for 2018 covered 49,000 students in the UK (17,000...

By way of comparison, Erasmus+ funding for 2018 covered 49,000 students in the UK (17,000 outgoing and 32,000 incoming) and over 7,000 staff, at a cost of around €160 million.205 This means that, for the one year currently funded, the … Read more

Government Response

At Spending Review 2021, the UK Government confirmed funding for the Turing Scheme for the next three years, including maintaining total funding for mobilities and delivery of the scheme at … Read more

Scotland Office

87 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Universities UK had a mixed reaction to the replacement of Erasmus+ with Turing: While we...

Universities UK had a mixed reaction to the replacement of Erasmus+ with Turing: While we are obviously disappointed that the UK will no longer be part of the Erasmus scheme, it is significant that the Government has committed to a … Read more

Government Response

At Spending Review 2021, the UK Government confirmed funding for the Turing Scheme for the next three years, including maintaining total funding for mobilities and delivery of the scheme at … Read more

Scotland Office

88 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

In relation to the impact on Scotland, Royal Society of Edinburgh Fellows told us that:...

In relation to the impact on Scotland, Royal Society of Edinburgh Fellows told us that: The UK leaving the Erasmus+ programme is regrettable and will adversely affect both students and staff through the loss of two-way mobility. This impact will … Read more

Government Response

At Spending Review 2021, the UK Government confirmed funding for the Turing Scheme for the next three years, including maintaining total funding for mobilities and delivery of the scheme at … Read more

Scotland Office

89 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

As pointed out by both Universities UK and the Royal Society of Edinburgh, it is...

As pointed out by both Universities UK and the Royal Society of Edinburgh, it is not currently envisaged that the Turing Scheme will fund overseas students coming to the UK, as Erasmus+ did. As outlined earlier in the Chapter (paragraph … Read more

Government Response

At Spending Review 2021, the UK Government confirmed funding for the Turing Scheme for the next three years, including maintaining total funding for mobilities and delivery of the scheme at … Read more

Scotland Office

90 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

As reflected on by Rachel Sandison, University of Glasgow, another aspect of the Turing Scheme...

As reflected on by Rachel Sandison, University of Glasgow, another aspect of the Turing Scheme is that it is not currently envisaged that it will fund staff mobility, like Erasmus+ did. She told us that: Although we have had 3,000 … Read more

Government Response

At Spending Review 2021, the UK Government confirmed funding for the Turing Scheme for the next three years, including maintaining total funding for mobilities and delivery of the scheme at … Read more

Scotland Office

91 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Mary Senior, University and College Union Scotland, had concerns about the “temporary nature” of the...

Mary Senior, University and College Union Scotland, had concerns about the “temporary nature” of the Turing Scheme.211 She noted that: Turing is only for one year. It’s going to be far harder to build relationships with other institutions when you … Read more

Government Response

At Spending Review 2021, the UK Government confirmed funding for the Turing Scheme for the next three years, including maintaining total funding for mobilities and delivery of the scheme at … Read more

Scotland Office

92 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

On 28 December 2020 Richard Lochhead MSP, Scottish Minister for Further Education, Higher Education and...

On 28 December 2020 Richard Lochhead MSP, Scottish Minister for Further Education, Higher Education and Science, expressed his “profound disappointment” at the UK Government’s decision to withdraw from the Erasmus.213 He described the move as “a huge blow”, said that … Read more

Government Response

At Spending Review 2021, the UK Government confirmed funding for the Turing Scheme for the next three years, including maintaining total funding for mobilities and delivery of the scheme at … Read more

Scotland Office

93 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

In oral evidence Minister Lochhead also expressed concerns to us about the UK Government’s motivations...

In oral evidence Minister Lochhead also expressed concerns to us about the UK Government’s motivations behind the decision to withdraw from Erasmus+: I am suspicious that the UK Government felt the Erasmus scheme was symbolic of close ties with Europe. … Read more

Government Response

At Spending Review 2021, the UK Government confirmed funding for the Turing Scheme for the next three years, including maintaining total funding for mobilities and delivery of the scheme at … Read more

Scotland Office

94 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

In terms of improvements that Minister Lochhead wanted to see to the Turing Scheme, he...

In terms of improvements that Minister Lochhead wanted to see to the Turing Scheme, he made similar points to us as many in the higher education section, namely that it should be expanded with a longer-term budget, include other sectors … Read more

Government Response

At Spending Review 2021, the UK Government confirmed funding for the Turing Scheme for the next three years, including maintaining total funding for mobilities and delivery of the scheme at … Read more

Scotland Office

95 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

The Welsh Government is similarly disappointed that the UK is no longer participating in the...

The Welsh Government is similarly disappointed that the UK is no longer participating in the Erasmus+ scheme and, as a result, has begun developing its own scheme called the ‘New International Learning Exchange’ to “fill the gaps Turing leaves”.220 A … Read more

Government Response

At Spending Review 2021, the UK Government confirmed funding for the Turing Scheme for the next three years, including maintaining total funding for mobilities and delivery of the scheme at … Read more

Scotland Office

96 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

In relation to Erasmus+, Iain Stewart MP, Minister for Scotland, told us that that he...

In relation to Erasmus+, Iain Stewart MP, Minister for Scotland, told us that that he “fully acknowledge the benefits that that scheme brought”224 and that: The possibility of staying part of Erasmus was a central part of the negotiations all … Read more

Government Response

At Spending Review 2021, the UK Government confirmed funding for the Turing Scheme for the next three years, including maintaining total funding for mobilities and delivery of the scheme at … Read more

Scotland Office

97 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

In the Government’s view the UK “could achieve the same benefits [as Erasmus+] with Turing”,...

In the Government’s view the UK “could achieve the same benefits [as Erasmus+] with Turing”, but could also improve upon it by “looking at the global reach of it to widen participation”.226 Minister Stewart told us that it was about: … Read more

Government Response

At Spending Review 2021, the UK Government confirmed funding for the Turing Scheme for the next three years, including maintaining total funding for mobilities and delivery of the scheme at … Read more

Scotland Office

98 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

In relation to the importance of inward, rather than just outward exchanges, Minister Stewart said,...

In relation to the importance of inward, rather than just outward exchanges, Minister Stewart said, “I absolutely get the value of these exchanges in both directions”228 and: In terms of students coming here, what we are also working on—and Scottish … Read more

Government Response

At Spending Review 2021, the UK Government confirmed funding for the Turing Scheme for the next three years, including maintaining total funding for mobilities and delivery of the scheme at … Read more

Scotland Office

99 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Looking ahead to future years of the Turing Scheme, and collaboration with the devolved administrations,...

Looking ahead to future years of the Turing Scheme, and collaboration with the devolved administrations, Rebecca Hackett, Office of the Secretary of State for Scotland, told us that: 223 “New International Learning Exchange programme to make good the loss of … Read more

Government Response

At Spending Review 2021, the UK Government confirmed funding for the Turing Scheme for the next three years, including maintaining total funding for mobilities and delivery of the scheme at … Read more

Scotland Office

100 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Until 17 December 2020, one week before the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement was reached,...

Until 17 December 2020, one week before the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement was reached, the UK Government was reassuring Parliament that UK participation in Erasmus+ was intended to be included within the UK-EU deal. Given that Erasmus+ disproportionally benefited … Read more

Government Response

At Spending Review 2021, the UK Government confirmed funding for the Turing Scheme for the next three years, including maintaining total funding for mobilities and delivery of the scheme at … Read more

Scotland Office

101 Recommendation

First Report - Universities and Sc…

We note with regret however that the Turing scheme will not—as currently envisaged—support inward placements...

We note with regret however that the Turing scheme will not—as currently envisaged—support inward placements to the UK. As the Government recognises, as well as providing Scottish universities and local economies with an important income source, inward placements support the … Read more

Scotland Office

102 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Since the announcement that the UK will no longer participate in the EU Erasmus+ programme...

Since the announcement that the UK will no longer participate in the EU Erasmus+ programme following the end of the Transition Period, both the Scottish Government and Scottish academics have been lobbying for Scotland to remain in Erasmus+ independently from … Read more

Government Response

At Spending Review 2021, the UK Government confirmed funding for the Turing Scheme for the next three years, including maintaining total funding for mobilities and delivery of the scheme at … Read more

Scotland Office

103 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Similarly, academics in Scotland have backed proposals to look at ways in which Scotland can...

Similarly, academics in Scotland have backed proposals to look at ways in which Scotland can continue an association with Erasmus+. It has been reported that a motion calling for a working group to examine options to achieve this received support … Read more

Government Response

At Spending Review 2021, the UK Government confirmed funding for the Turing Scheme for the next three years, including maintaining total funding for mobilities and delivery of the scheme at … Read more

Scotland Office

104 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Rebecca Hackett, Office of the Secretary of State for Scotland, told us however that: The...

Rebecca Hackett, Office of the Secretary of State for Scotland, told us however that: The European Commission has confirmed, following the decision of the UK Government not to participate in the next programme, that there was not an option for … Read more

Government Response

At Spending Review 2021, the UK Government confirmed funding for the Turing Scheme for the next three years, including maintaining total funding for mobilities and delivery of the scheme at … Read more

Scotland Office

105 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

When asked what position of the UK Government would be if the European Commission changed...

When asked what position of the UK Government would be if the European Commission changed its mind on Scottish participation in Erasmus+, Minister Stewart said: My point would be that Scotland would be paying twice: first for the Turing Scheme … Read more

Government Response

At Spending Review 2021, the UK Government confirmed funding for the Turing Scheme for the next three years, including maintaining total funding for mobilities and delivery of the scheme at … Read more

Scotland Office

106 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

The Scottish Government has indicated a desire to remain in the Erasmus+ programme.

The Scottish Government has indicated a desire to remain in the Erasmus+ programme. Should they decide to continue down this path and be willing to cover the associated costs, and should the EU consent to Scottish participation, the UK Government … Read more

Government Response

At Spending Review 2021, the UK Government confirmed funding for the Turing Scheme for the next three years, including maintaining total funding for mobilities and delivery of the scheme at … Read more

Scotland Office

107 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Scotland’s universities have an international reputation for excellent research that delivers economic and social benefits...

Scotland’s universities have an international reputation for excellent research that delivers economic and social benefits for both Scotland and the wider world.237 Richard Lochhead MSP, Scottish Minister for Further Education, Higher Education and Science, has said that “Scotland is a … Read more

Scotland Office

108 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

The University of Glasgow argues that Scottish universities’ global reputation for excellent research is evidenced...

The University of Glasgow argues that Scottish universities’ global reputation for excellent research is evidenced through ‘Research Excellence Framework’ exercises and the percentage of funding won from UK research funders compared to the relative size of the research base.240 As … Read more

Scotland Office

109 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

The Secretary of State for Scotland, Rt Hon Alister Jack MP, also highlighted to us...

The Secretary of State for Scotland, Rt Hon Alister Jack MP, also highlighted to us the importance of Scotland’s research base: 237 Universities Scotland, Internationally Scottish - Creating global communities (July 2020), p 12 238 “Putting Scottish science and research … Read more

Scotland Office

110 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Alastair Sim, Universities Scotland, made the point to us that a large amount of how...

Alastair Sim, Universities Scotland, made the point to us that a large amount of how we respond to the pandemic is going to be through research, and the need therefore for having a “vibrant world-class research base”.246 Professor Chris Pearce, … Read more

Scotland Office

111 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Professor Chris Pearce also pointed out however that universities, such as the University of Glasgow,...

Professor Chris Pearce also pointed out however that universities, such as the University of Glasgow, have had to redirect a lot of resources to fight covid-19 and, as a consequence, a lot of non-covid research has been “severely impacted”.248 He … Read more

Scotland Office

112 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Dr Stuart Fancey, Director of Research and Innovation, Scottish Funding Council, told us that both...

Dr Stuart Fancey, Director of Research and Innovation, Scottish Funding Council, told us that both the sources of research funding, and the scale of research activity, varied “enormously” across Scottish universities.250 He told us that the Scottish Funding Council provides … Read more

Scotland Office

113 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

According to Audit Scotland, the formula-based funding models for the core grants for teaching and...

According to Audit Scotland, the formula-based funding models for the core grants for teaching and research are “widely accepted” by the sector because they provide “transparency, understanding and are perceived by the sector to be fair.”253 However, when the Scottish … Read more

Scotland Office

114 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Professor Chris Pearce, University of Glasgow, told us that medical research charities are having to...

Professor Chris Pearce, University of Glasgow, told us that medical research charities are having to scale back because of a loss of donations due to the pandemic, and that this will lead to a “significant drop in charity funding for … Read more

Scotland Office

115 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

The UK Government published its Research and Development Roadmap260 in July

The UK Government published its Research and Development Roadmap260 in July

Government Response

The 2021 Spending Review set out the government’s plan to cement the UK as a global science and technology superpower and demonstrates our commitment to delivering on the R&D Roadmap … Read more

Scotland Office

116 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

The Roadmap was warmly welcomed by those who gave evidence to us.

The Roadmap was warmly welcomed by those who gave evidence to us. Professor Chris Pearce,263 Professor Rebecca Lunn,264 and Professor James Conroy265 particularly welcomed the dual commitment of increasing money in real terms and of reaching 2.4% of GDP spent … Read more

Government Response

The 2021 Spending Review set out the government’s plan to cement the UK as a global science and technology superpower and demonstrates our commitment to delivering on the R&D Roadmap … Read more

Scotland Office

117 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

In response to the immediate economic pressures the UK faced as a result of the...

In response to the immediate economic pressures the UK faced as a result of the pandemic, the UK Government decided in November 2020 to temporarily reduce the funds it would make available for Official Development Assistance (ODA) from 0.7% to … Read more

Government Response

The 2021 Spending Review set out the government’s plan to cement the UK as a global science and technology superpower and demonstrates our commitment to delivering on the R&D Roadmap … Read more

Scotland Office

118 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

The decision to reduce UK ODA spend from 0.7% to 0.5% of GNI, and the...

The decision to reduce UK ODA spend from 0.7% to 0.5% of GNI, and the implications this has for the financing of UK academic research, has been criticised by the higher education sector, especially in Scotland, with Universities Scotland saying: … Read more The decision to reduce UK ODA spend from 0.7% to 0.5% of GNI, and the implications this has for the financing of UK academic research, has been criticised by the higher education sector, especially in Scotland, with Universities Scotland saying: [ … ] the scale of cuts is significantly higher than expected, at an eye watering 70% according to the latest estimates. The implications of this announcement appear to be completely at odds with the UK Government’s bold ambitions [in the UK Government R&D Roadmap] to make the UK a science superpower and increase investment in research and development and with the UK’s stated aim to recast itself as a “global Britain” in the wake of Brexit. [ … ] UKRI have indicated that they will have to reprofile and reduce grants and may have to terminate some projects that are already in progress. This is previously unheard of. Doing so would abandon many communities in low and middle income countries around the world [ … ]. 261 HMG, ‘UK Research and Development Roadmap’, accessed 20 April 2021 262 HMG, ‘UK Research and Development Roadmap’, accessed 20 April 2021 263 Q118 264 Q119 265 Q5 266 “UUK response to government’s research and innovation roadmap”, Universities UK, 1 July 2020 267 House of Commons Library, ‘Spending Review: Reducing the 0.7% aid commitment’, accessed 19 April 2021 268 “UKRI required to review Official Development Assistance funding”, UKRI, 11 March 2021 269 “UKRI required to review Official Development Assistance funding”, UKRI, 11 March 2021 46 Universities and Scotland It threatens to undermine the trust we and mutual respect have built up with our partners, over decades, as an essential component of overseas development. It sends a message about what the UK does and does not value, which is fundamentally at odds with the values of Scotland’s universities. It poses a huge financial risk to the sector and a risk to jobs and the prospects of early career researchers. Ultimately, termination before completion is a Show less

Government Response

The 2021 Spending Review set out the government’s plan to cement the UK as a global science and technology superpower and demonstrates our commitment to delivering on the R&D Roadmap … Read more

Scotland Office

119 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

The Chancellor has said that sticking rigidly to the ODA target was difficult to justify...

The Chancellor has said that sticking rigidly to the ODA target was difficult to justify under current economic circumstances but that he intended to return to 0.7% “when the fiscal situation allows”.271

Government Response

The 2021 Spending Review set out the government’s plan to cement the UK as a global science and technology superpower and demonstrates our commitment to delivering on the R&D Roadmap … Read more

Scotland Office

120 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

The UK Government should be praised for its UK Research and Development Roadmap, especially the...

The UK Government should be praised for its UK Research and Development Roadmap, especially the commitment to reach 2.4% of GDP spend in this area, which has been extensively welcomed by academic institutions in Scotland. The UK Government should ensure … Read more

Government Response

The 2021 Spending Review set out the government’s plan to cement the UK as a global science and technology superpower and demonstrates our commitment to delivering on the R&D Roadmap … Read more

Scotland Office

121 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) is a non-departmental public body sponsored by the Department for...

UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) is a non-departmental public body sponsored by the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS).272 Its main purpose is to “invest in and facilitate research and innovation activities across the United Kingdom, and, through … Read more UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) is a non-departmental public body sponsored by the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS).272 Its main purpose is to “invest in and facilitate research and innovation activities across the United Kingdom, and, through Research England, directly support higher education providers in England to carry out research and knowledge exchange activities.”273 Its funding decisions are “made independently from Government” and are made “through independent evaluation by experts, based on the quality and likely impact of that research”.274 The Secretary of State for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy is however “accountable to Parliament for UKRI business and retains the publicly accountable role for overarching policy”.275 In terms of governance: • The UKRI Board is its “primary governing body”.276 It has general oversight of UKRI’s activities and is responsible for achieving UKRI’s strategic objective and vision. The Board is made up of UKRI’s Chair, Chief Executive and Chief Finance Officer, as well as between 9 and 12 independent members drawn from higher education, industry and commerce, policy, and charities and other non- governmental organisations.277 Board members are appointed by the Secretary of State for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy.278 270 “Cuts to ODA funding undermines UK’s “Global Britain” agenda”, Universities Scotland, 26 March 2021 271 House of Commons Library, ‘Spending Review: Reducing the 0.7% aid commitment’, accessed 19 April 2021 272 Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy, UKRI Framework Document, May 2018, p 6 273 Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy, UKRI Framework Document, May 2018, p 6 274 UKRI, ‘Our relationship with the government’, accessed 20 April 2021 275 Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy, UKRI Framework Document, May 2018, p 16 276 UKRI, ‘UKRI Board’, accessed 20 April 2021 277 UKRI, ‘UKRI Board’, accessed 20 April 2021 27 Show less

Scotland Office

122 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Iain Stewart MP, Minister for Scotland, told us that that Scottish universities were “punching way...

Iain Stewart MP, Minister for Scotland, told us that that Scottish universities were “punching way above their weight” in terms of receipt of UKRI funding.283 He went on to say that “Scotland’s approximate share of the UK is 8% in … Read more

Scotland Office

123 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

On the subject of regional disparities in UKRI funding, Iain Stewart MP said to us...

On the subject of regional disparities in UKRI funding, Iain Stewart MP said to us “I don’t think there is a problem there to be solved. I don’t think we should get into the position of allocating money purely on … Read more

Scotland Office

124 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Other criticisms of UKRI funding brought to our attention included, from Dr Vicky Johnson, University...

Other criticisms of UKRI funding brought to our attention included, from Dr Vicky Johnson, University of the Highlands, that its “money tends to go to the older universities, and not the post-1992s or the very new universities”.290 Also, from Professor … Read more Other criticisms of UKRI funding brought to our attention included, from Dr Vicky Johnson, University of the Highlands, that its “money tends to go to the older universities, and not the post-1992s or the very new universities”.290 Also, from Professor James Conroy, University of Glasgow, that “everything is not sewn together quite as well as it 279 Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy, UKRI Framework Document, May 2018, p 33 280 Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy, UKRI Framework Document, May 2018, p 33 281 Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy, UKRI Framework Document, May 2018, p 33 282 Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy, UKRI Framework Document, May 2018, p 19 283 Q257 284 Q257 285 National Audit Office, UK Research and Innovation’s management of the Industrial Strategy Challenge Fund, 5 February 2021, p 30 286 London = 17%, South East England = 27.2% (National Audit Office, UK Research and Innovation’s management of the Industrial Strategy Challenge Fund, 5 February 2021, p 30) 287 National Audit Office, UK Research and Innovation’s management of the Industrial Strategy Challenge Fund, 5 February 2021, p 30 288 RSE Young Academy of Scotland (USC0006) p 6 289 Q257 290 Q9 48 Universities and Scotland might be” as “UKRI is supposed to be bringing everything together, but it still feels like separate research councils under an umbrella organisation.”291 Furthermore, the RSE Young Academy of Scotland told us that: Research funding allocated by UKRI also appears biased by gender, ethnicity and age; funding success rates are systematically lower for women; in engineering and physical sciences, the gap deepens as grants get larger, with the difference in success rates even greater (over 10%) between white and black and other minority ethnic groups investigators. This is a particular threat for Scottish universities, when funding diversity and inclusivity is essential to foster innovation, growth and Show less

Scotland Office

125 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

UKRI’s Framework Document says that “BEIS will regularly engage with the devolved administrations on UKRI’s...

UKRI’s Framework Document says that “BEIS will regularly engage with the devolved administrations on UKRI’s priorities, including with respect to how UKRI and the devolved funding bodies can most effectively work together to support the UK’s research and innovation base”, … Read more

Government Response

Appointments to the UKRI Board are made on personal experience and skill set via open competition. Appointees are not recruited to represent any constituency, sector or regional grouping as it … Read more

Scotland Office

126 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Professor James Conroy, University of Glasgow, thought the Scottish Funding Council (SFC) was an “afterthought”...

Professor James Conroy, University of Glasgow, thought the Scottish Funding Council (SFC) was an “afterthought” in deliberations about how UK-wide funding is delivered.296 In his view: We need to have much more robust engagement between SFC and the English bodies, … Read more

Government Response

Appointments to the UKRI Board are made on personal experience and skill set via open competition. Appointees are not recruited to represent any constituency, sector or regional grouping as it … Read more

Scotland Office

127 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Alastair Sim, Universities Scotland, told us that Scotland’s voice within UKRI was “still something that...

Alastair Sim, Universities Scotland, told us that Scotland’s voice within UKRI was “still something that needs vigilance”.298 He was keen to see a “strong Scottish research voice on the board of UKRI” in succession to Sir Ian Diamond from the … Read more

Government Response

Appointments to the UKRI Board are made on personal experience and skill set via open competition. Appointees are not recruited to represent any constituency, sector or regional grouping as it … Read more

Scotland Office

128 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Providing the perspective of the UK Government, Minister Stewart told us he did “not think...

Providing the perspective of the UK Government, Minister Stewart told us he did “not think there was a problem to be solved” as there was already “strong representation of Scottish interests” within UKRI.301 Supporting this, Rebecca Hackett, Office of the … Read more

Government Response

Appointments to the UKRI Board are made on personal experience and skill set via open competition. Appointees are not recruited to represent any constituency, sector or regional grouping as it … Read more

Scotland Office

129 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Minister Stewart also made the point that the UK Government has established, between the Department...

Minister Stewart also made the point that the UK Government has established, between the Department for Education and the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy, a Ministerial Taskforce looking at the sustainability of research funding.303 The Minister pointed out … Read more

Government Response

Appointments to the UKRI Board are made on personal experience and skill set via open competition. Appointees are not recruited to represent any constituency, sector or regional grouping as it … Read more

Scotland Office

130 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

The work of Scottish universities in combating covid-19 has been nothing short of remarkable.

The work of Scottish universities in combating covid-19 has been nothing short of remarkable. Going forward, the academic outputs of Scottish universities will not only support our economic recovery following the pandemic but also bolster the UK’s standing in the … Read more

Government Response

Appointments to the UKRI Board are made on personal experience and skill set via open competition. Appointees are not recruited to represent any constituency, sector or regional grouping as it … Read more

Scotland Office

131 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Horizon 2020 was the EU’s framework programme for research and innovation.

Horizon 2020 was the EU’s framework programme for research and innovation. The UK was both a significant contributor to and beneficiary from Horizon 2020 with, between 2014 and 2016, the highest share of participants in signed grant agreements (12.8% of … Read more

Scotland Office

132 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Horizon Europe is the EU’s €100 billion research and innovation programme that succeeds Horizon 2020...

Horizon Europe is the EU’s €100 billion research and innovation programme that succeeds Horizon 2020 and runs from 2021 to 2027. The programme aims to strengthen European science and technology research, boost innovation capacity, competitiveness and jobs, and deliver on … Read more

Scotland Office

133 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

The EU-UK Trade and Corporation Agreement, struck on 24 December 2020, confirms that—unlike Erasmus+—the UK...

The EU-UK Trade and Corporation Agreement, struck on 24 December 2020, confirms that—unlike Erasmus+—the UK would continue to participate in Horizon Europe following the end of the Transition Period. This decision was widely praised by the science and research sectors312 … Read more

Government Response

The UK Government has agreed to associate with Horizon Europe through the Trade and Cooperation Agreement reached with the EU in December 2020. The UK Government stands ready to formalise … Read more

Scotland Office

134 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

It is currently unclear how much influence the UK will have over Horizon Europe.

It is currently unclear how much influence the UK will have over Horizon Europe. The Declarations agreed between the UK and EU as part of the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement state that the UK “shall participate as an associated … Read more It is currently unclear how much influence the UK will have over Horizon Europe. The Declarations agreed between the UK and EU as part of the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement state that the UK “shall participate as an associated country in all parts of the Horizon Europe programme”, and that UK “entities may participate in direct actions of the Joint Research Centre”316 (the EU Commission’s science and knowledge service), but “without voting rights”.317 In addition, the EU Commission’s guidance note on UK participation in Horizon Europe states that the EU is able to exclude the UK from elements of Horizon Europe: In duly justified exceptional cases for actions related to Union strategic assets, interests, autonomy or security, Horizon Europe work programmes may provide that the participation can be limited to those legal entities established in Member States only, or, to those legal entities established in specified associated or other third countries in addition to Member States. Moreover, for duly justified and exceptional reasons, in order to guarantee the protection of the strategic interests of the Union and its Member States, the work programme may also exclude the participation of legal entities established in the Union or in associated countries directly or indirectly controlled by non-associated third countries or by legal entities of nonassociated third countries from individual calls, or make their participation subject to conditions set out in the work programme.318 311 Wellcome, Why the UK should associate to Horizon Europe (November 2019), p 1 312 European University Association, ‘European University Association and Universities UK International’s common statement on the EU-UK agreement’, accessed 25 January 2021 313 Royal Society of Edinburgh Fellows (USC0013) para 16 314 Q177 315 Q269 316 HM Government, EU-UK Declarations (24 December 2020), p 18 317 HM Government, EU-UK Declarations (24 December 2020), p 18 318 European Commission, Q&A on the U Show less

Government Response

The UK Government has agreed to associate with Horizon Europe through the Trade and Cooperation Agreement reached with the EU in December 2020. The UK Government stands ready to formalise … Read more

Scotland Office

135 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

The US has previously had concerns over potential involvement in Horizon Europe.

The US has previously had concerns over potential involvement in Horizon Europe. Constance Arvis, Director for Science and Technology Cooperation, US State Department, said in February 2020 that association in Horizon Europe would allow the European Commission to exclude associated … Read more

Government Response

The UK Government has agreed to associate with Horizon Europe through the Trade and Cooperation Agreement reached with the EU in December 2020. The UK Government stands ready to formalise … Read more

Scotland Office

136 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

When we asked Minister Lochhead how much of a risk there was that the UK,...

When we asked Minister Lochhead how much of a risk there was that the UK, and therefore Scotland, will lose influence over Horizon and benefit from its contributions going forward, he told us that was “a real concern that has … Read more

Government Response

The UK Government has agreed to associate with Horizon Europe through the Trade and Cooperation Agreement reached with the EU in December 2020. The UK Government stands ready to formalise … Read more

Scotland Office

137 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Minister Stewart did not think the UK or Scotland would be disadvantaged as an associate...

Minister Stewart did not think the UK or Scotland would be disadvantaged as an associate member of Horizon Europe.322 Expanding on this further, Rebecca Hackett, Office of the Secretary of State for Scotland, informed us that: [ … ] there … Read more

Government Response

The UK Government has agreed to associate with Horizon Europe through the Trade and Cooperation Agreement reached with the EU in December 2020. The UK Government stands ready to formalise … Read more

Scotland Office

138 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

The Horizon programme has been, and will continue to be, vital to Scottish academic research.

The Horizon programme has been, and will continue to be, vital to Scottish academic research. It aids Scotland’s universities in their quest to tackle the biggest global challenges. We praise the UK Government for ensuring the UK’s continued participation; it … Read more

Government Response

The UK Government has agreed to associate with Horizon Europe through the Trade and Cooperation Agreement reached with the EU in December 2020. The UK Government stands ready to formalise … Read more

Scotland Office

139 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Professor Nigel Seaton, Abertay University, told us that higher education is “fundamentally international”.324 Universities Scotland...

Professor Nigel Seaton, Abertay University, told us that higher education is “fundamentally international”.324 Universities Scotland have also stated that “internationalisation is top of the agenda for Scottish universities”325 and, in July 2020, they published a report on the importance of … Read more

Government Response

Higher Education in Scotland is, for the most part, a devolved responsibility. We recognise that the whole of the UK benefits from stability across Higher Education. We appreciate the importance … Read more

Scotland Office

140 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Scottish academic research also has great success internationally.

Scottish academic research also has great success internationally. The RSE Young Academy of Scotland told us that Scotland’s researchers publish extensively outside Scotland (89% Scotland vs UK 72%) through “high impact collaborations”.330 Professor Chris Pearce, University of Glasgow, also noted … Read more

Government Response

Appointments to the UKRI Board are made on personal experience and skill set via open competition. Appointees are not recruited to represent any constituency, sector or regional grouping as it … Read more

Scotland Office

141 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Rachel Sandison, University of Glasgow, told us that Scottish international research is a powerful tool...

Rachel Sandison, University of Glasgow, told us that Scottish international research is a powerful tool for international collaboration and connections, with 57% of publications currently involving international collaboration, so “ensuring that the framework exists to allow that success to continue … Read more

Government Response

Appointments to the UKRI Board are made on personal experience and skill set via open competition. Appointees are not recruited to represent any constituency, sector or regional grouping as it … Read more

Scotland Office

142 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

On UK immigration and visa policies, and the implications these have on academic research in...

On UK immigration and visa policies, and the implications these have on academic research in Scotland, Minister Lochhead told us that the Scottish Government was working with the UK Government to make it easier for international researchers to come to … Read more

Government Response

UK visa fees are broadly in line with our competitors across a range of visa types. Visa products are, however, difficult to compare because visa offers including benefits and entitlements … Read more

Scotland Office

143 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Minister Lochhead also said that—following Brexit—Scottish researchers and academics are “worried” about “the hostile immigration...

Minister Lochhead also said that—following Brexit—Scottish researchers and academics are “worried” about “the hostile immigration policy and what that means in terms of Scotland being seen as an open and welcoming country”.335 Professor James Conroy, University of Glasgow, made the … Read more

Government Response

We have now launched our new global, points-based immigration system, including most recently, the Graduate route, and have extensively promoted these new immigration routes throughout the EU and the rest … Read more

Scotland Office

144 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

In terms of ensuring that the UK remains an attractive place to work in for...

In terms of ensuring that the UK remains an attractive place to work in for international academics, Iain Stewart MP, Minister for Scotland, highlighted to us that the Government is working on an International Education Strategy, headed up by Sir … Read more

Government Response

We have now launched our new global, points-based immigration system, including most recently, the Graduate route, and have extensively promoted these new immigration routes throughout the EU and the rest … Read more

Scotland Office

145 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

A UK immigration policy raised—and praised—by many witnesses to this inquiry was the Post-study work...

A UK immigration policy raised—and praised—by many witnesses to this inquiry was the Post-study work visa (detailed further in paragraph 78).338 Witnesses were also complimentary of the UK’s Global Talent visa, and its ability to facilitate inward mobility of world-leading … Read more

Government Response

UK visa fees are broadly in line with our competitors across a range of visa types. Visa products are, however, difficult to compare because visa offers including benefits and entitlements … Read more

Scotland Office

146 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Wellcome go on to say that “for the Global Talent visa to be a globally...

Wellcome go on to say that “for the Global Talent visa to be a globally competitive offer for researchers, and particularly for those early on in their careers, this must be revisited as a priority”.343 They also point out that: … Read more

Government Response

10. In order to allow Scotland to remain competitive and attractive to the best international research talent, who can bring so much to our economy and society, the UK Government … Read more

Scotland Office

147 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Scottish universities are inherently international institutions; international collaborations play a big part in their successes.

Scottish universities are inherently international institutions; international collaborations play a big part in their successes. In addition, Scottish universities act as much-valued international hubs in their local communities, bringing important cultural benefits. Scottish universities’ internationalisation agenda should therefore be supported. … Read more

Government Response

11. The UK Government must promote a positive narrative—including by using its significant diplomatic reach—that, whilst we have left the EU, the UK and Scotland remain an attractive place to … Read more

Scotland Office

148 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

As our predecessor Committee noted in its Report on Immigration and Scotland, in 2018, EU...

As our predecessor Committee noted in its Report on Immigration and Scotland, in 2018, EU citizens make up around 17% of academic staff and 25% of research staff at Scottish universities.345 During our inquiry witnesses spoke to us about how … Read more

Government Response

11. The UK Government must promote a positive narrative—including by using its significant diplomatic reach—that, whilst we have left the EU, the UK and Scotland remain an attractive place to … Read more

Scotland Office

149 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Professor Katherine Smith, University of Strathclyde, told us that—despite the fact that most EU nationals...

Professor Katherine Smith, University of Strathclyde, told us that—despite the fact that most EU nationals are allowed to continue working in the UK—she was “really clear from conversations with colleagues working in Scotland, who were born in other European countries, … Read more

Government Response

11. The UK Government must promote a positive narrative—including by using its significant diplomatic reach—that, whilst we have left the EU, the UK and Scotland remain an attractive place to … Read more

Scotland Office

150 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Iain Stewart MP, Minister for Scotland, told us that what underpins the UK Government’s “strategy...

Iain Stewart MP, Minister for Scotland, told us that what underpins the UK Government’s “strategy is to maintain good links with Europe, with our partners and friends, trading partners and academic links”—he “absolutely” wanted that to continue.351 That said, he … Read more

Government Response

11. The UK Government must promote a positive narrative—including by using its significant diplomatic reach—that, whilst we have left the EU, the UK and Scotland remain an attractive place to … Read more

Scotland Office

151 Conclusion

First Report - Universities and Sc…

Academic institutions in Scotland depend on partnerships and connections with institutions across the EU.

Academic institutions in Scotland depend on partnerships and connections with institutions across the EU. That includes academics who come from the EU to work in Scotland, who often specialise in highly technical areas which can be difficult to recruit from … Read more

Government Response

11. The UK Government must promote a positive narrative—including by using its significant diplomatic reach—that, whilst we have left the EU, the UK and Scotland remain an attractive place to … Read more

Scotland Office

Correspondence 4 letters

16 May 2022 To committee Letter from the Secretary of State for Scotland on the UK Government response to the Universities and Scotland report, dated 10 May 2022

Parliament page

27 Apr 2022 From committee Letter to the Secretary of State for Scotland on the UK Government response to the Universities and Scotland report, dated 25 April 2022

Parliament page

7 Mar 2022 To committee Letter from the Secretary of State for Scotland, on Government responses to Committee reports, dated 4 March 2022

Parliament page

2 Mar 2022 From committee Letter to the Secretary of State for Scotland on Government responses to Committee reports, dated 21 February 2022

Parliament page