Duncan Ivison, president and vice‑chancellor of the University of Manchester, publicly criticized the U.K. government’s proposed 6% surcharge on international‑student tuition, calling the levy “wrong” and warning it would damage the sector’s competitiveness and long‑term interests. Ivison spoke ahead of the budget, as Chancellor Rachel Reeves prepares to outline details, arguing that the charge will reduce revenue and deter international recruitment at a time when overseas students are a key financial and research asset for many institutions. Manchester’s statement highlights a broader sector concern: policy changes that raise the cost of study for international students can reduce enrolments, harm campus diversity and global partnerships, and constrain research budgets. Universities and trade groups are preparing to press ministers for more nuanced fiscal measures that protect international education’s economic and academic contributions.