Fees debate will still be close says Minister

Education Minister Tim Crookall believes the forthcoming Tynwald debate on student tuition fees will be very close.

The proposal was withdrawn from both the December and January sittings amid widespread opposition.

The scheme will see a universal fee of £2,500 apply for each year at university, although first year students entering a course this autumn won't pay until the same time in 2014.

The loan will attract interest initially set at 5%

Means tested contributions will also be payable where parental income exceeds £100,000 before tax.

And repayments will start a year after their studies are completed and if they're earning at least £21,000 per annum.

Mr Crookall says all the Tynwald members were briefed on Tuesday and he still expects another fierce debate.