LECTURERS at Huddersfield University are stepping up efforts to get the Government to change its mind on top-up fees.
Members of the lecturers' union NATFHE are writing to local MPs urging them to oppose the plans.
The lecturers are stressing the damage which they believe variable fees will do to new universities such as Huddersfield.
Union spokesman Keith Hickling said: "Many applicants to universities such as Huddersfield cannot risk massive debts. Government studies confirm this.
"But currently there is no definite Government proposal for decent student grants, merely the prospect of huge debts on graduation."
Variable charges would deepen the gap between elite and poorer universities to a chasm, Mr Hickling claimed.
He said: "The range of departments and courses at poorer universities will diminish.
"Equipment and facilities will decline.
"The best staff and research funding may be attracted to better funded universities."
Parents and students should write to their MP, Mr Hickling urged.
