No levy on international students in Scottish universities, say UK ministers

A proposal to introduce a levy on international students would not be implemented in Scottish universities without the approval of ministers in Edinburgh, the UK Government has said.

The SNP had earlier complained that Scottish universities were being “left in limbo” over the proposals, saying the sector could lose up to £85 million.

The UK Government has said it will explore introducing a levy on higher education provider income from international students, which would be reinvested into the university system.

The proposal was included in the White Paper on immigration released by Sir Keir Starmer’s Government earlier this month, which said further details would be set out in the autumn budget.

The SNP had called for clarity on the issue, saying the “damaging migration plans” were a threat to Scotland’s NHS, economy and universities.

Bill Kidd, SNP MSP, said: “The UK Labour Government has already slapped our universities with a £30 million bill with their reckless decision to hike employer national insurance contributions.

“Our universities have now been left in limbo not knowing if they are faced with a further bill of £85 million directly due to Labour’s political choices, whilst they also face the prospect of finding it harder to attract international students.”

On Monday, the UK Government said the tax would not apply north of the border.

A spokesman said: “The international student levy will not apply in Scotland unless the Scottish Government decides to introduce it.”