Commenting on the announcement from the Scottish Government on college funding, Scottish Liberal Democrat Education spokesperson Liam McArthur MSP said:
Liam McArthur MSP"This announcement from the Education Secretary still leaves individual colleges across Scotland in the dark about their individual funding allocations. Planning for next year has been made difficult, if not impossible, for Scotland's colleges, particularly when it comes to developing the new regional structures that Mr Russell wants in place by February.
"What is clear, however, is that last year's 10% cut is to be followed by a cut of up to 8.5% next year. The consequence of this for college places, courses and staff jobs is likely to be significant.
"Scottish Liberal Democrats have been at the forefront of the campaign to get Scottish Minister to reverse these damaging cuts, in light of additional funding already made available by Westminster.
"The Scottish Government must heed these calls and demonstrate that it understands the importance of our colleges to the future of the Scottish economy."