Update: 12:40

70 Italian rectors resign over budget cuts
Italy's 70 state universities rectors have carried out their threat to resign en masse over real-terms cuts in higher education in the 2003 budget. But university minister Letizia Moratti has formally neither accepted nor rejected the resignations and the rectors will remain at their desks pending the outcome of the budget debate and a clear indication that their demand for an extra €350 million will be met.

Brunel moots school for the disadvantaged plan
Brunel University wants to found a school to encourage disadvantaged students to enter higher education. Vice-chancellor Steve Schwartz said: "We are looking for high-achieving pupils who could be lost in the system." The plans, which could incorporate a primary school, are being discussed by officials at the Department for Education and Skills. The school could be set up in two years' time.