ANOTHER national report has confirmed that young people from working class communities are less likely to apply to university because the fear of spiralling student debt.

Should anyone be surprised?

The saddest thing is that New Labour in England continues to refuse to listen. The lack of adequate student grants is not only socially discriminatory, it is also counter-productive.

Our economy needs skilled and qualified young people to stay competitive. The lack of student grants means that many young people will not go on to get qualifications, and the higher paid jobs that follow.

Therefore the tax return which could pay for grants is lessened.

For both social justice, and good economics, the Government should return adequate grants now.

Rev Steve Little

Liverpool Liberal Party

Barry Barnes

Salford Liberal Party