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Manx student loans 'are fair'

'Wider debate' needed about fees

An MHK has defended the rate of interest government charges on student loans.

Currently, those who travel off-Island to university are required to contribute £2,500 toward their tuition fees - with the remaining cost eligible for a grant.

The cost of contributions can be covered by a loan, with interest charged at five per cent per annum after graduation.

UK students are currently charged a maximum of 3.1 per cent by the authority there.

Treasury member Bill Shimmins admits a 'wider debate' needs to be had about student fees, but Manx graduates are better off:

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