RESPONDING to today's Assembly Government statement on the higher education action plan, Shadow Education Minister Paul Davies AM said:

"I welcome the fact the minister wants to drive the median income for universities in Wales above that of the UK as a whole.

"But he also needs to ensure a broad range of subjects continue to be made available to students.

"Given that the minister wants fewer higher educational institutions in Wales I hope this will not mean fewer students from disadvantaged backgrounds are able to access higher education.

"He also needs to provide details of what support will be made available to part time students and ensure any plans continue to support research and development – a key component of building a successful, vibrant economy."