More young people must be allowed to enter higher education, the University of Bedfordshire's vice chancellor has told MPs.

Professor Les Ebdon says that this year 30,000 students could miss out on studying at university because of a government cap on the number of places available.

At a meeting at the Houses of Parliament on Thursday, June 25, hosted by Luton North MP Kelvin Hopkins, Prof Ebdon addressed politicians, education experts and union representatives.

Speaking in his capacity as chair of the universities think tank Million Plus, he said: "By allowing more students to enter higher education, the government could be solving the skills shortage at the same time as preventing thousands of people from facing unemployment.

"This year, more than ever, there are lots of young people wanting to enter higher education. We cannot disadvantage this group."

The government has made an extra 10,000 places available this year, but Prof Ebdon said there were 40,000 more students hoping to get onto courses.

Mr Hopkins added: "Universities play an important role in social cohesion too. All those who are able to benefit should have the opportunity to go to university."