Scots Lib Dems focus on education

Nicol Stephen said Scotland had seen an increase in numbers

The Scottish Liberal Democrats have set out plans to invest an extra £168m each year in universities.

The party's pledge would take full effect from April 2010.

Speaking as he visited Aberdeen University, leader Nicol Stephen said his party also supported 4,000 more student places.

He set out plans to scrap the graduate endowment, boost student grants and continue opposition to tuition or top-up fees for Scottish students.

"There could not be a more important issue for Scotland's economic future," he said.

"Abolishing the graduate endowment and increasing student grants will reduce student debt and encourage more people into higher education."

Mr Stephen added that the abolition of tuition fees in Scotland had led to an increase in student numbers and lower student debt compared to other parts of the UK.