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20/09/2012
Lib Dems Offering Apologies For Tuition Fees Pledge
Lib Dem leader Nick Clegg has been joined by Vince Cable and David Laws to apologise for breaking their party's pledge to oppose increasing student tuition fees.
In a party political broadcast to be aired next week, Mr Clegg will say he is sorry the party "did not stick" to its pre-election promise.
And Business Secretary Vince Cable has said it had been an "unwise commitment", while speaking to the BBC.
Labour said it was not good enough after breaking a key election pledge, adding that they couldn’t "just brush that promise aside."
Clegg however remains unapologetic for backing the decision to raise fees, arguing it was the right move in the circumstances and the package offered by the coalition - in which no fees are paid upfront - was fairer for students than the previous system of university finance.
In next week's broadcast, filmed in Mr Clegg's home, the deputy prime minister returns to an issue which has been the source of the biggest division in the party since it came to power in May 2010.
Clegg adds: "I will never again make a pledge unless as a party we are absolutely clear about how we can keep it."
(H)
In a party political broadcast to be aired next week, Mr Clegg will say he is sorry the party "did not stick" to its pre-election promise.
And Business Secretary Vince Cable has said it had been an "unwise commitment", while speaking to the BBC.
Labour said it was not good enough after breaking a key election pledge, adding that they couldn’t "just brush that promise aside."
Clegg however remains unapologetic for backing the decision to raise fees, arguing it was the right move in the circumstances and the package offered by the coalition - in which no fees are paid upfront - was fairer for students than the previous system of university finance.
In next week's broadcast, filmed in Mr Clegg's home, the deputy prime minister returns to an issue which has been the source of the biggest division in the party since it came to power in May 2010.
Clegg adds: "I will never again make a pledge unless as a party we are absolutely clear about how we can keep it."
(H)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
