STUDENT protests in London, where there has been more violence and scuffles with police, is “only the beginning” of the battle against higher tuition fees, Bucks Students' Union say.

A lengthy and highly charged debate has been taking place in the House of Commons ahead of Thursday's vote.

Protests, involving thousands, have been taking place outside Parliament.

There are reports of 19 injuries following clashes, including to three police officers.

Metropolitan Police Chief Superintendent Julia Pendry condemned the protesters who she said had deliberately set out to cause violence.

Chris Clark, vice president of education at Bucks Students' Union, is currently among hundreds at a rally on Victoria Embankment, away from the clashes.

He told the Free Press: “I think it shows how strong the students feel about it but I wouldn't advocate out right violence at all.”

He said those held back by police were trying to join the rally, where he and union president Tom Foy have been listening to speakers, including some MPs.

Officers have been containing or 'kettling' the protesting students.

Mr Clark said: “Kettling is not something I agree with, it's bound to antagonise people who are already on edge.”

Police have said containment was a last resort due to 'unprovoked attacks'.

Mr Clark said: “Whichever way it goes today (the vote) it's only the beginning.

"If we are not successful today I think it's only going to heighten the fight, the protest, the campaigning and the feeling for it.”

Unlike the national demonstration last month, there has not been a coordinated effort by Bucks Students' Union today to get members along to the protest.

Some members may have travelled up individually, Mr Clark said.

Mr Clark met Wycombe MP Steve Baker this morning in Parliament but said he came out of the meeting “more disturbed” than before and found his responses 'muddled'.

He claimed Mr Baker could not explain how the policy was 'progressive'.

Mr Baker and all of his fellow Conservative Buckinghamshire MPs, Dominic Grieve, Cheryl Gillan, and David Lidington have all said they are voting in favour of the rise.

The vote is set to take place about 5.30pm.

Two Lib Dem MPS have have quit their posts over the policy, which could lead to some universities charging £9,000 per year for tuition fees.

However, institutions wishing to charge this figure will have to meet various criteria and prove they are providing adequate provision for poorer students.

The Government say the plans are fairer than the existing policy because students will not have to pay back the fees until they are earning £21,000 salaries or higher.

LATEST: HOUSE OF COMMONS VOTE RESULT:

Government wins fees vote by majority of 21.

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Or are the protesters right to continue their campaign to persuade MPs against the fees rise?

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