AoC's response to election results

Responding to the election results overnight, David Hughes, Chief Executive of the Association of Colleges, said: “Last night’s election result has left us all in limbo. In the short term, the uncertainty and possible delays put even more pressure on some of the key operational decisions which DfE need to make very quickly. “Throughout this short election campaign, our message has been simple. For the UK to succeed in a post-Brexit world, this country must be more self-sufficient in skills. Colleges are ready to make this a reality. We need to develop a culture of lifelong learning and make this the norm in all communities for all people. To achieve this, colleges need to have the right investment. We will continue to push this message to the next Government, however this is formed. “We also have a very different dynamic in national politics and in Parliament. If we have a minority Conservative government or a coalition led by the conservatives then they will face a confident and more legitimate Labour opposition. Labour made gains on a platform which moves on considerably from the austerity focus of the last seven years. That will help us build the case for more post-16 investment. “The strong turnout from young people is good news. Colleges across the country have worked hard to encourage voter registration as well as running hustings and debates. We live in a participatory democracy, and getting young people engaged is good for all of us.”