RESPONDING to the publication of the second part of the Merfyn Jones Review into Higher Education in Wales today, Shadow Education Minister Paul Davies AM said:

"We welcome this report, but as a party we are unfortunately not at all surprised by its findings.

"We have been stressing for some time now the vital role that Higher Education plays in helping Wales out of the recession.

"A strong, properly funded HE sector goes hand in hand with economic and cultural prosperity.

"The Jones Review also highlights its concerns about the funding gap between universities here and in England and Scotland.

"Welsh Conservatives have raised these concerns time and time again but the Assembly Government will not listen. Perhaps they will listen to Professor Merfyn Jones now he is telling them.

"Labour and Plaid must address the funding gap as soon as possible.

"It not only affects the education of the nation but will have a negative impact on the recovery of our economy if left as it is

"I am also worried that the review draws attention to a loss of momentum in attracting students from poorer backgrounds to our universities.

"The Assembly Government must take action to resolve this."