4. Statement by the Minister for Education: Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 4:21 pm on 29 April 2020.

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Photo of Suzy Davies Suzy Davies Conservative 4:21, 29 April 2020

[Inaudible.]—those replies. In response to the second part of my questions, perhaps you can pick up the points about PCET and access to Hwb that you didn't manage to get to just then.

But turning to HE institutions, universities, of course, are private institutions—it's a position they guard fiercely—but they are significant players in improving our constituents' futures and our economy, so Governments, both of them, have a role to play in preserving that resilience. I wonder if you could tell us whether you believe that universities in Wales are disproportionately exposed to some of the serious financial difficulties that Universities UK have spoken of as a result of the effects of the virus—you'll remember that the question of some of our universities over commitments on finances has come to this Chamber previously, so it is an issue of serious concern—and, on the back of that, whether you've had any detail from them about the steps that they are taking to make sure that they're taking advantage of all the financial support schemes that both Governments are offering, such as furlough, but there may be other examples as well.

Protecting our research basis—that's supremely important during this period, particularly retaining those best brains from around the world and to help capitalise on the agility and innovative ideas that have fallen out of this crisis, if you like. So, what can you tell us about the protection being offered to quality research, and again whether we are disproportionately exposed on the question of visas?

And then, finally, because of the likely loss of thousands of overseas students and deferment by domestic students, there's going to be fierce competition for those who want to begin courses in the autumn, as student income, of course, is critical to the viability of courses, departments and even institutions. I heard what you said on the control of unconditional offers that expires in a couple of days, but what other steps are necessary to ensure fair play for all institutions, and are they, like the banks, too important to fail?