UNIVERSITY VICE-CHANCELLORS' PAY

That this House condemns the massive, above inflation pay rises of university vice-chancellors while insisting their employees stick to a one per cent increase; points out that in the Russell Group of universities which represents 24 of the most selective higher education institutions in the country basic pay rose by more than £20,000 last year to an average of almost £293,000; highlights the case of the Open University's Martin Bean, the highest-paid boss, who earns £407,000 a year and is apparently so busy he has just advertised for a £45,000 a year speechwriter; is certain that no potential student picks a university because of its vice-chancellor; notes that the appeal from Universities Minister David Willetts to exercise restraint has fallen on deaf ears; understands the disquiet among staff, particularly lecturers, that below inflation pay rises are imposed on them while their employers enjoy record remuneration; and calls on the Government to ensure that vice-chancellors' pay increases only by the same percentage as that of their staff.