Secretary of State for Education (): The government is
committed to ensuring this country develops the skills we need to
deliver sustained economic growth, improved prosperity and living
standards for working people. Our world leading higher education
sector is a key engine at the heart of these growth plans and
today I am announcing some of the first steps we are taking to
ensure a stable future for higher education, with strong
regulation that means students can thrive.
First, today will see the publication of the report for the
independent review of the Office for Students, Fit for the Future: Higher
Education Regulation Towards 2035, which will be made
available on Gov.UK.
The review found that the case for bold regulation of higher
education is clear but that the OfS should more sharply focus on
key priorities, which include monitoring financial
sustainability, ensuring quality, protecting public money and
regulating in the interests of students.
I would like to thank the lead reviewer, Sir , for conducting a rigorous and
thoughtful review, and all those in the higher education sector
who supported and contributed to the review process.
The government accepts the core analysis of the review and as set
out in our manifesto, we recognise that strong regulation is a
crucial element for a stable, world-leading higher education
sector, that delivers for students and the economy.
I will deposit a copy of the report in the Libraries of both
Houses.
Following the resignation of Lord Wharton as chair of the OfS
earlier this month, I also wish to announce that Sir David has
been appointed as interim chair of the OfS. His role will
primarily be to work with the current executive to implement the
recommendations of the independent review. The process to appoint
a permanent chair has started and will conclude next year.
Lastly, I have written to colleagues separately about my decision
to stop further commencement of the Higher Education (Freedom of
Speech) Act 2023, in order to consider options, including its
repeal. I am aware of concerns that the Act would be burdensome
on providers and on the OfS, and I will confirm my long term
plans as soon as possible. To enable students to thrive in higher
education, I welcome the OfS's plans to introduce strengthened
protections for students facing harassment and sexual misconduct,
including relating to the use of non-disclosure agreements in
such cases by universities and colleges.
