Official statement from Hallam Students' Union, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield Students' Union and University of Sheffield:

Sheffield is committed to welcoming international students and is proud and grateful for all they bring to our city, which is their home for a time.

These students, who study at Sheffield’s two universities and college, make a contribution to our city which is much more than just financial. They work in our hospitals, schools and businesses. They volunteer for more than 140 Sheffield charities and add new perspectives, food and cultural opportunities.

Years after our international students leave Sheffield, they are global ambassadors for the city, the region and its people. They feel proud of the education and friendships they made here. We are proud that they go on to make the world a better place, working as scientists, engineers, doctors, nurses, teachers and leaders in over 100 countries.

Our city is also deeply grateful for the investment and vibrancy our international students bring - over £120 million into our city’s economy each year, around 10% of inward investment in Sheffield. Our city regeneration and the growth of many small businesses owes a huge amount to international students. Now, in a time of change, we want to reassure potential international students from around the world that you are welcome in Sheffield.

Thousands of others have had a wonderful experience in this city, and this will continue.

Professor Sir Keith Burnett CBE, FRS, Vice Chancellor, The University of Sheffield

Professor Chris Husbands, Vice Chancellor, Sheffield Hallam University

Paul Corcoran, Chief Executive, The Sheffield College

John Mothersole, Chief Executive, Sheffield City Council

Councillor Julie Dore, Leader of the Council, Sheffield City Council

Sir Gary Verity, Chief Executive, Welcome to Yorkshire

Dr Alan Billings, South Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner

Sir Andrew Cash, Chief Executive, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

Richard Wright, Executive Director, Sheffield Chamber of Commerce, Chair of Governors, The Sheffield College

Clive Betts MP, Member of Parliament for Sheffield South East

Rt Hon Nick Clegg MP, Member of Parliament for Sheffield Hallam

Angela Smith MP, Member of Parliament for Penistone & Stocksbridge

Louise Haigh MP, Member of Parliament for Sheffield Heeley

Paul Blomfield MP, Member of Parliament for Sheffield Central

Gill Furniss MP, Member of Parliament for Brightside & Hillsborough