Politics · 1 March 2026
England's student loans: Interest now nearly doubles original debt
Political leaders in England now agree that the student loan system requires action. The current system is considered a "debt trap" as above-inflation interest rates can make interest charged almost equal the original loan amount. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson is seeking a fairer system, while Conservatives propose cutting interest rates and government funding for certain university courses. Labour ministers are also exploring options to ease the burden on students.
Reported by Guardian · How we write briefs