Senior Liberal Democrat figures, including Vince Cable and David Laws, have joined party leader Nick Clegg in apologising for breaking their pre-election promise to oppose increases in student tuition fees. In a party political broadcast to be aired next week, Mr Clegg will express regret that the party "did not stick" to its commitment.
Business Secretary Vince Cable described the pledge as an "unwise commitment" and acknowledged his share of responsibility. The apology comes after MPs approved plans in 2010 to allow universities in England to charge up to £9,000 per year, nearly three times the previous cap. More than 21 Lib Dem MPs voted against the proposals at the time.
In the broadcast, filmed at his home, Mr Clegg states: "There's no easy way to say this: we made a pledge, we didn't stick to it - and for that I am sorry." He adds that the party must learn from its mistakes and will not make pledges in future without clarity on how to keep them.
Labour's deputy leader Harriet Harman criticised the apology, calling it "crocodile tears" and urging Mr Clegg to vote with Labour to reduce fees. She described him as "weak and spineless" if he does not back his words with action.
Education minister David Laws defended the decision, arguing that keeping the pledge would have required sacrificing other key commitments. He denied it was a failure of leadership, citing the party's record on other issues.
