English slams polytechs

National believes polytechnics around the country are not pulling their weight financially.

Education spokesman Bill English includes Christchurch Polytechnic Institute of Technology in his criticism.

Mr English says papers from the Ministry of Education reveal serious concerns about the viability of many polytechs.

He says the institutions are not making big enough surpluses to survive, and many are falling deeper into debt.

Bill English says the Ministry is predicting more trouble next year as their financial reserves are low.

- NEWSTALK ZB