Alliance Party media release FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Thursday 11 October 2007

Fee Hikes Make Mockery Of Government Claims

The Alliance Party says fee hikes at Victoria University make a mockery of Government claims of a world class education system and the 'knowledge society.'

Alliance education spokesperson Richard Wallis says Victoria University’s recent decision to raise fees by 5% despite objections by students is a result of a funding system designed to shift the financial burden of education onto students.

"Education Minister Steve Maharey talks of wanting a world class education system, but once again we see the Labour Government not prepared to invest the resources to make this a reality."

Mr Wallis says many students go through university "living off two minute noodles and living in almost squalid conditions" and were being crushed under a $9 billion debt.

He agrees with Victoria University Finance committee chairman, James Ogden, who described the funding increase received as “laughable”.

If New Zealand is to have a world class education system then we must be prepared to pay for it, Mr Wallis says.

"Funding shortages should not be passed onto those who can least afford it – students."

The Alliance backs Victoria University Students Association president- elect Joel Cosgrove who has lambasted the fee rise.

The Alliance supports a genuine free education system, paid for by a progressive taxation system, that does away with the need for fees and loans, and allows all New Zealanders access to a high quality, world class, education system.

ENDS