Tim speaks out in Prime Minister's Questions to call on the Government to protect the University of Cumbria

South Lakes MP, Tim Farron, has used today's Prime Minister's questions to ask the Deputy Prime Minister to ensure that universities, such as the University of Cumbria are able to continue playing their vital role in providing teacher training.

The University of Cumbria is Europe's biggest provider of newly qualified teachers. However the education White Paper, which is anticipated to be published later this month, may contain recommendations to move postgraduate and undergraduate teacher training away from the higher education setting.

Today's PMQs were fielded by Nick Clegg, the Deputy Prime Minister as the Prime Minister is away in China.

Speaking in the House of Commons, Tim called on the Nick Clegg the Deputy Prime Minister to help protect higher education establishments like the University of Cumbria that have built up Britain's reputation as amongst the best in the world for teacher education.

Commenting afterwards Tim said: "Any plans to move teacher training away from universities would not only be a huge blow to the University of Cumbria, but would also seriously compromise the quality of training and over burden our local schools, who are forced to take on the extra responsibility."

"I welcome the support of the Deputy Prime Minister in protecting teacher education in Britain and especially the University of Cumbria."