Universities across the country are being investigated by the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) after withholding degrees over unpaid library fines.

Research from the OFT found that over half of a random sample of 50 Universities found their terms could be considered “unfair” and could land them in court.

The Waterfront has learned that Swansea is one of these universities. If the OFT rules against institutions, it could force the university to backtrack on it’s policy of no degrees for students with fines.

Library fines are a good business, with the University library charging almost £90k of overdue fines and £150k in lost book fines. Over half the student population had a fine, with the average being £29.49.

After complaints from the National Union of Students (NUS), the OFT have launched an investigation under the Enterprise Act 2002.

A statement from the OFT read: “It is [the investigation] considering whether such contract terms and/or practices breach the Unfair Terms in Consumer Contracts Regulations 2008 and certain other consumer protection legislation.”

A University spokesperson said: “We are aware of an OFT interest in the issue of academic sanctions and note that the UUK will be meeting with the OFT to discuss the issue. We will await with interest any outcomes from this meeting”