Conference believes:

That the standard of residential accommodation in which students live, is an important factor in their both health and academic achievements.

That all students living in University Halls of Residence should be entitled to a decent standard of accommodation at a reasonable price.

That University halls offer several social, welfare and other advantages over private residences.

That privatised University Halls of Residence, on reasonable terms and conditions, are better than no Halls.

Conference notes with concern:

The increasing number of student halls of residence, which are being privatised by Universities.

That Private Finance Initiatives, Public Private Partnerships, or full scale privatisation of student Halls, has led in many cases to significant increases in rent to students.

That such initiatives taken by Universities often lead to private control of cleaning and maintenance within student halls, often leading to lower living standards for students.

The large financial and often stress burdens placed on students attending University.

That the Labour Government have cut higher education funding whilst increasing pressure on universities to accept additional student numbers.

That universities are currently struggling or failing to provide basic services and facilities, and that this is at least partially due to lack of funding.

That many universities do not have sufficient funds to improve their accommodation to a reasonable standard, or invest in additional accommodation.

That companies and housing organisations have more money to invest in university accommodation than universities do.

Conference resolves:

To call for and campaign for an end to privatisation of university halls of residence and college where it becomes a threat and to support it where it offers improved or additional facilities on terms that students view as being reasonable.

To campaign for Universities to ensure that students living in their residences, enjoy a clean, safe and comfortable living environment, at a reasonable price.