On Wednesday 16 January, the Scottish Parliament’s Education and Skills Committee will take evidence from the Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills, John Swinney on the Scottish Government’s Draft Budget for 2019-20. We provided evidence to the Committee about our concerns related to the budget as currently drafted which we believe […]
Briefings & Evidence
We regularly give policy advice to Government and Parliament. Review our briefings and consultation responses here.
Briefing for Scottish Government Debate: Safeguarding Scotland’s International Research Collaborations and Reputation for Scientific Excellence from the Threat of Brexit
On 7 November 2018, the Scottish Parliament held a Scottish Government Debate on Safeguarding Scotland’s International Research Collaborations and Reputation for Scientific Excellence from the Threat of Brexit. Higher education is one of several sectors that will be impacted highly by changes brought about after Brexit. Staff from within the EU make a tremendous contribution to […]
REF 2021 consultation on the draft guidance and criteria
The four UK funding bodies are consulting on the detailed arrangements for the next Research Excellence Framework (REF), as set out in the draft guidance and criteria. Universities Scotland has responded to this consultation to: flag our concerns that the approach to staff circumstances could have negative equality and diversity implications; highlight the challenging timeframes […]
Universities Scotland submission of evidence to Culture, Tourism, Europe and External Affairs Committee inquiry on Article 50: Preparedness
Universities Scotland has responded to the Scottish Parliament’s Culture, Tourism, Europe and External Affairs Committee inquiry into Article 50: Preparedness. Our submission focuses on the issues that would arise as a result of a ‘no deal’ Brexit and the implications of such an outcome on our membership. Read our consultation response here.
Universities Scotland response to Science and Technology Committee inquiry on balance and effectiveness of research and innovation spending.
Universities Scotland submitted evidence to the UK Parliament’s Science and Technology Committee inquiry on the balanced and effectiveness of research and innovation spending. Our submission highlights the importance of the UK wide dual support system, and ensuring Scottish HEIs are involved in the ongoing review of balanced funded. We have also highlighted the need for […]
Universities Scotland response to Economy, Jobs and Fair Work Committee inquiry on Scottish Government Draft Budget 2019-20
Universities Scotland has responded to the Scottish Parliament’s Economy, Jobs and Fair Work Committee’s inquiry on the Scottish Government Draft Budget 2019-20. The inquiry asked about the role of enterprise agencies in supporting and growing good quality employment and the role of the apprenticeship levy. You can read our submission here.
Universities Scotland evidence to APPG for International Students
The All-Party Parliamentary Group for International Students announced an inquiry in August into the the opportunities and challenges in building a sustainable future for international students in the UK. You can read our evidence here.
Economy, Fair Work and Jobs Committee inquiry into Business Support
Universities Scotland have responded to the Scottish Parliament’s Economy, Fair Work and Jobs Committee’s inquiry into Business Support. The inquiry focused on the role that Business Gateway plays in supporting local business. Universities Scotland highlighted good instances of Business Gateway working well with universities as well as suggestions about how the innovation and support landscape […]
Protection of Vulnerable Groups and the Disclosure of Criminal Information: Universities Scotland responds to Scottish Government consultation
The Scottish Government has consulted with stakeholders on the proposed changes to Protection of Vulnerable Groups and the disclosure system. You can read our submission to the consultation here.
Professional legal education: Universities Scotland provides evidence to the Justice Committee
The Scottish Parliament’s Justice Committee is undertaking an inquiry into professional legal education. As part of the inquiry, we felt it was worthwhile drawing to the Committee’s attention the work of the Reach programme in schools across Scotland to help widen access to a number of degree programmes, including law. You can read the evidence […]