THE AM for Torfaen has welcomed student finance plans that will mean that every student in Wales will receive the equivalent of the National Living Wage during term time while they study.

The radical overhaul of student finance in Wales was published after an independent review led by Professor Sir Ian Diamond and a panel of experts.

The proposals mean that the average Welsh student could receive £7,000 a year in grant support while they study, with a pro-rata version available to part-time students.

Lynne Neagle said: “These proposals are sustainable and fair and will provide future Welsh students with the support they need to flourish in higher education.

“They will also be the most generous and progressive set of proposals available anywhere in the UK.

"This once again signals that the Welsh Government is listening by accepting the Diamond proposals.”

The maximum level of support available is expected to be more than £9,000 a year for those studying full–time, if implemented in 2018/2019.

The Welsh Government will consult on the proposed changes until February 14, 2017, with a view to the new arrangements being in place for students starting university in September 2018.

The changes will be subject to Treasury approval and the ability of the Student Loans Company to put the new funding system in place.