Top-up fees are on the cards for many students

There has been concern that the introduction of the tuition fees south of the border could lead to more competition for places to Scottish universities, where the additional fees will not apply.

Scottish university principals have also warned ministers of the risk of a funding gap opening up between the higher education systems north and south of the border.

The call for submissions on the issue came from Holyrood's enterprise and culture committee which will begin its inquiry after the summer recess.

We are interested in seeing what evidence there is of potential problems and developing solutions to address these Alasdair Morgan committee convener

Scottish students no longer pay upfront tuition fees but in England students pay up to �1,125 a year, depending on income.

Under proposals announced by Education Secretary Charles Clarke, universities could be allowed to increase annual fees up to �3,000.

Committee convener, Scottish National Party MSP Alasdair Morgan, called for views from across Scotland.

He said: "We are interested in seeing what evidence there is of potential problems and developing solutions to address these.

"The political parties in Scotland have already stated their opposition to upfront tuition fees, so we may need to look at other ways of making sure our universities can continue to provide high quality education and maintain a competitive position."