Uma Kumaran

Uma Kumaran

Labour — Stratford and Bow

Speaking in the House of Commons on 16 June 2026

Debate

Lifelong Learning: “University of the Air” White Paper

Contribution

My hon. Friend is speaking powerfully about his story and his experience of higher education. Young people from more advantaged or affluent backgrounds are still much more likely to enter higher education than their less-advantaged peers. Socioeconomic background—what we more commonly call class—is still the strongest predictor of university attendance. Does my hon. Friend agree that the mission at the heart of the 1966 White Paper, to expand access to higher education and spread opportunity, is just as relevant today as it was then?

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