Caroline Lucas and Phelim Mac Cafferty have added their voices to those of the students and staff fighting against job and course cuts.

Caroline Lucas, who hopes to become MP for Brighton Pavilion, sent a statement to the occupation yesterday, pledging to oppose Higher Education cuts of elected.

Caroline, who has previously called for essential Sussex services such as UNISEX, a health promotion service run by the Universities, to be protected, said:

"In a recession, the other political parties are calling for cuts left, right and centre."

"But Greens know the last thing we need right now is more cuts."

"Rather, investment into education and public services will ensure that Britain has the resources to get out - and stay out - of recession."

"World class universities ensure that Britain remains able to compete world wide, with top class academics, scientists and thinkers."

"Well funded universities are vital if we are to have a society where ideas, research and innovation are encouraged and promoted."

"Cuts to Higher Education will have a devastating effect on students and staff, as well as Britain's economy."

"I am proud of our Universities. Education is not a commodity to be privatised. If elected, I pledge to oppose Higher Education cuts and ensure we do not sell future generations short."

Speaking today at the occupation, Phelim Mac Cafferty, who sits on the Green Party National Executive, said:

"I helped occupy Sussex University ten years ago to support students who were threatened with expulsion because they couldn't pay their tuition fees."

"Through the course of helping to occupy Sussex and a number of other universities, we warned then that higher education was set on a highway to privatisation, cuts and the approach of sell to the highest bidder. Little did we know it would have gone quite this far."

"This is indicative of a Government which tries to sell-off everything that can be sold. The message from the occupation here at Sussex is clear - that education is not for sale."

For more information please contact the Brighton and Hove Green Party office on 01273 766 670