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<p>In the new higher education (HE) regulatory framework, the Office for Students
(OfS) has responsibilities to monitor and assess the financial viability of registered
providers. In this work, the OfS as regulator, rather than the department, takes into
account the individual circumstances of each provider applying to be on the new register
of publicly-funded providers. It will therefore have taken into account the financial
viability and individual circumstances of the twelve English universities that have
experienced a decline in student numbers of more than 10 per cent since 2012.</p><p>
</p><p>We have also given the OfS powers to ensure that registered providers have
plans in place to protect their students, via appropriately constructed student protection
plans. Where the OfS identifies particular risks to a provider’s financial sustainability,
the student protection plan may need to be strengthened in a tailored way before it
can be agreed. The requirement by the OfS that all registered providers have a student
protection plan means that for the first time in the higher education sector there
will be a consistent sector-wide approach to student protection arrangements.</p><p>
</p><p>It is the responsibility of Vice-Chancellors and HE provider leaders to ensure
their institutions are financially viable. We will not prop up failing providers.</p><p>
</p><p>I meet regularly with the Chair and Chief Executive of the OfS to discuss
the full range of issues relevant to the higher education sector. My right hon. Friend
the Secretary of State also has similar meetings.</p>
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