Mr McConnell gave his backing to the Crichton campus

Tory MSP Alex Fergusson raised the issue amid concerns that the University of Glasgow might quit the town.

Mr McConnell said he hoped to see provision on the campus "at least maintained - if not improved".

He said the Scottish Funding Council was working to ensure the widest range of courses was available.

Mr Fergusson, the MSP for Galloway and Upper Nithsdale, raised his question after the University of Glasgow warned it might be forced out of Dumfries due to financial losses on the campus.

I believe the overall level of provision at the Crichton campus should be at least maintained - if not improved Jack McConnell

He said the Crichton needed to ensure political support "at the highest level".

The first minister said he recognised the importance of the site.

"Crichton campus is important for Dumfries and south west Scotland as a whole," he said.

"I believe the overall level of provision at the Crichton campus should be at least maintained - if not improved."

He said the SFC and Crichton partners were developing a strategy to guarantee a "secure future" for the campus involving a range of institutions and courses.

"They have my full support in doing so," he said.