Lib Dems to Join Fees Protest

2.03.41pm BST (GMT +0100) Sat 11th Oct 2003

Liberal Democrats would scrap tuition fees

Cllr Chris Maines and Orpington Liberal Democrat members will be attending the national demonstration against tuition fees in central London on Sunday 26th October.

The demonstration has been called by the National Union of Students, and is supported by the ATL teaching union and the Liberal Democrat Youth and Students. The demonstration is taking place on a Sunday for the first time to allow wide participation from students, their families, and university staff.

Chris Maines said 'This issue concerns many Orpington families. Tuition fees of up to £3,000 per year will do nothing to encourage young people to go to University. I'd encourage all local people to join us on the 26th'

'Liberal Democrats are committed to scrapping tuition fees, and re-introducing a grant. The demonstration is a great way of showing our concern at student poverty'

The march begins at the University of London Union, and will travel south to embankment, pass the Houses of Parliament, before a rally at Trafalgar Square.

Cllr. Chris Maines will be joining the Liberal Democrat contingent on the march, which will nclude David Rendel MP and Liberal Democrat Student members from all over the country.

Local residents who want more information on the march can call Orpington Liberal Democrats on 01689 822 151 or email LD_Orpington@cix.co.uk