University funding

The Association of University Teachers has again called for a Royal Commission to lead a national investigation in to the "nightmare problem" of university funding, writes Alison Utley.

The AUT said a commission would determine an acceptable solution which would be respected by the major players. "It could meet and report by the summer," said general secretary David Triesman.

University lecturers union Natfhe said vice chancellors should submit two budgets next year - one to incorporate the Government's cuts and an alternative "quality budget".