One of Britain's most senior academics is warning that universities could close and tuition fees rise unless the Government gives guarantees over Brexit.

In an interview with Sky News, Professor Hugh Brady, Vice-Chancellor of Bristol University, called on the Government to reassure EU students and academic staff they will not be used as "bargaining chips" in negotiations.

"We need these academic leaders from Europe," he said. "They are part of the great strength of our institutions, so just give them the reassurances they need."

"They are up there working with our UK academics, driving the research agenda," added Prof Brady.

Image: Prof Brady says we must not jeopardise a system that gives so much to the economy

Figures from UCAS, the UK's university admissions body, show a 9% fall in early applications from the rest of the EU for study in 2017.


"The UK system is up there with the very best in the world at the moment," said the Vice-Chancellor. "Why would we possibly want to jeopardise that system which is so important for our economic future?"

Some 5% of students at Bristol are from EU countries, as are 20% of its academic staff.

Fifteen percent of the university's funding for research comes from the EU.

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The Government says foreign students studying in the UK will have their fee levels and immigration status guaranteed if they start their course before or during the academic year 2017-2018.

It is making no assurances beyond that date.

The British Council is handing literature to potential students which states: "It is hoped that similar guarantees around EU student fees and loans will be announced for 2018 courses shortly."

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Prof Brady said his colleagues want Nissan-style assurances that the sector will not suffer post-Brexit: "If we want to continue to compete at that very top level we have to maintain funding, and if international student funding drops that hole has got to be filled by either Government funding or increased tuition fees."

Universities UK claims that the higher education sector is worth £73bn per annum to the United Kingdom - or 2.8% of GDP.

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Prof Brady warns that action is required immediately: "The more we dither and the longer it takes, the greater the chance that they will move."

He also argues forcefully for international students to be removed from immigration statistics, which he argues is supported by British people in recent polling, regardless of whether they voted to leave.

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It is claimed Theresa May has been resisting calls to do so - despite support from Chancellor Philip Hammond - because of concerns it could be used a backdoor to illegal immigration.

"At this stage it is a no-brainer," said Prof Brady.

"It is very reassuring to see that even if people voted Remain or Brexit they appreciated the value - economic or otherwise - that international students bring to our society and our economy."

A Government spokesperson said: "The UK is home to some of the world's best universities and our investment of £2bn per year for scientific research and development will ensure we continue to be a global leader in science.

"As we exit the EU we will strive to ensure we build on our achievements and remain a leading destination for the brightest and best minds at all stages of their careers.

"We have already provided assurances for EU students applying for student funding in England for courses starting in the academic year 2017/18.

"We will also underwrite the payment of Horizon 2020 awards made before we leave the EU, even if projects continue beyond the UK's departure."