ALL but one of Kent’s Labour MPs swung behind the Government in the crucial vote on tuition fees last night.

Medway MP Bob Marshall-Andrews was the sole rebel, maintaining his long-standing opposition to the policy as well as his reputation as a Labour maverick.

Two Labour MPs who had previously expressed doubts over the policy joined the Government in supporting the Bill.

Gwyn Prosser (Dover) was won over after 11th hour talks with the Prime Minister while Derek Wyatt (Sittingbourne and Sheppey) backed the Bill after further concessions were announced, including more help for poorer students.

Both had previously signed an Early Day Motion condemning the idea of tuition fees.

Mr Wyatt said: “I still have doubts about the concept of variability but we have been guaranteed a three-year review and the issue will come back to the House of Commons.

"On balance, I do not believe we can ask taxpayers to foot the whole bill for university expansion and improvement.”