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Labour and the Tories were accused today of a "conspiracy" to increase tuition fees as ministers ordered a full-scale review of student finance.
Business Secretary Lord Mandelson launched the inquiry with the support of his Tory counterpart David Willetts.
It is not expected to conclude until after next year's election, giving both parties an excuse to stay silent on fees for now. Both have hinted they are prepared to consider raising the cap on fees.
Lib-Dem universities spokesman Stephen Williams said the review was "nothing but a conspiracy between Labour and the Tories" to keep plans to increase fees off the agenda.
Students fear MPs are preparing to increase charges from £3,225 a year to up to £7,000. Leading vice-chancellors immediately began their campaign for higher fees.
Wes Streeting, president of the NUS, said: "There is a real danger that this review will pave the way for higher fees and a market in prices that would see poorer students priced out of more prestigious universities."
Professor Les Ebdon, chairman of the university think tank Million+ and vice-chancellor of the University of Bedfordshire, said: "The Labour and Conservative parties need to say where they stand before voters go to the polls next year."
The Russell Group of elite research universities suggested higher fees were "one of the most effective options" for funding degree courses in the future.
The review will be chaired by former BP boss Lord Browne. Any change would not take effect until at least 2011.
Lord Mandelson said reforms would aim to help more students from disadvantaged homes go to university.
Mr Willetts said: "An independent review, with cross-party support, is the right way to address this critical issue."
Reader views (3)
Well, if BOTH Labour and Tory, want to increase tution fees, then this merely fuels my concern, perhaps confirms my opinion that Politicians just want a dumbed down public, uneduacated and illeterate.
After all a stupid public is far easier to control and brainwash than those who can think or reason for themselves and provide a rationalised debate.
- Chris Richards, Chelmsford Essex
With friends like the Russian oligarchs Mandelson has completely lost touch with low to mid earning people and families. Of course he'll raise university fees, having made the most of reaping a free, probably grant aided, university education himself.
- James, London
Is there any pot twice discredited, unelected Meddlesum does not have a finger in?
- Reuben Camara, Plot 1, Morecambe Compound, EUSSR
