Universities UK were quick to make a statement following the morning results of the EU Referendum on the 24th June 2016. The group had passionately and vigorously campaigned for the United Kingdom to remain within the EU, however in their statement had said that although the results were not what they had wished and campaigned for, they will now focus ‘on securing support that allows our universities to continue to be global in their outlook, internationally networked and an attractive destination for talented people from across Europe.’
They have also said they will prioritise convincing ‘the UK Government to take steps to ensure that staff and students from EU countries can continue to work and study at British universities in the long term, and to promote the UK as a welcoming destination for the brightest and best minds.’
As the current Government leadership changes over the coming months, universities need to continue with their agenda to voice the value and contribution of EU and international students. This has been a heated and on-going issue over the past few years, as the HE sector has come head to head with the UK Home Office on several occasions regarding international student status. As head of Home Office Teresa May has now put her name forward as the next candidate for the position of Prime Minister to negotiate our EU relationship, it is essential for universities to continue to provide evidence-based research and strong support for the huge contributions of EU students to the UK economy.