Uni fees to be set at £9000

THE introduction of fees as high as £9000 a year for students coming to Edinburgh University from the rest of the UK has moved a step closer.

Education Secretary Michael Russell said he has laid regulations before MSPs that would allow Scottish universities to set fees up to that level.

The increase was proposed after a decision at Westminster to raise the bar in England, prompting concerns of unparalleled competition to study north of the border.

The SNP administration was elected on a pledge to maintain free university education for Scottish-based students.

Mr Russell made the announcement following a consultation on the proposal.