Prime Minister Keir Starmer has committed to reviewing the student loan system to make it more equitable, responding to mounting criticism over graduate debt burdens.

Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch characterized the current system as a "debt trap" for graduates, highlighting concerns about the financial burden facing university leavers. The opposition leader has called on Starmer to address what she described as unsustainable repayment structures.

Discussions are reportedly underway between the Treasury and the Department for Education regarding potential changes to the system. Sources indicate these talks include consideration of reversing a freeze on the salary threshold at which graduates begin loan repayments, a measure that was implemented by Chancellor Rachel Reeves in the recent Budget.

The student loan debate comes amid broader discussions about higher education funding and graduate employment prospects. The current repayment structure requires graduates to begin paying back loans once their earnings reach a specific threshold, with payments calculated as a percentage of income above that level.

Starmer's pledge to examine the system suggests the government recognizes growing concerns about student debt levels and their impact on graduates' financial circumstances. However, no specific timeline or details about potential reforms have been announced.