London Calling

[marmar]

from the BBC:





Protests surround Westminster as MPs debate fee rises


Thousands of demonstrators have marched on Westminster as MPs debate plans to raise tuition fees in England to £9,000 a year.

Protesters have scuffled with riot police in Parliament Square and have broken through barriers.

Police with riot shields are surrounding the Houses of Parliament.

Inside the House of Commons, Business Secretary Vince Cable told MPs the fee plans were fair and would maintain the quality of universities.

The coalition government is facing its first major backbench rebellion.

There have been minor scuffles between police and protesters as officers tried to control the march.

The BBC's Heather Sharp in Parliament Square says a smoke flare has been set off. ...............(more)

The complete piece is at: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/education-11954333