MPs open inquiry into student loans amid 'perfect storm' for young adults
Mar 12th 2026
The Treasury select committee, led by Meg Hillier, has launched a cross-party inquiry into student loans and is calling for public evidence as MPs probe the impact of rising repayments alongside housing, pensions and job risks for young adults.
- The Treasury select committee has opened a cross-party inquiry and invited public submissions via an online portal.
- Committee chair Meg Hillier said young people face layered pressures from high housing costs, weak pension saving and AI-driven job changes.
- Chancellor Rachel Reeves froze the loan repayment threshold for three years from 2027, a move that reignited anger over interest rates and repayments.
- Unemployment is near a five-year high with younger workers disproportionately affected.
- Hillier warned that failing pension contributions now could push costs onto taxpayers and raise future pensioner poverty.
- MPs say the student loans issue must be considered alongside housing, pensions and skills policy for an AI-shaped labour market.
Articles
- Inquiry into student loans launched by MPs www.bbc.com
- MPs launch student loans inquiry amid ‘perfect storm’ for young people in UK www.theguardian.com