The Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE) presents its second edition of its regional profiles of higher education. The document presents a range of information about higher education in England's nine government regions. The aim of the report is to assist stakeholders in debating the regional role of higher education, and to provide accurate, comprehensive data in support of that debate. The HEFCE aims to support regional higher education by addressing the need for better information, better networks, meeting regional demand for student places, meeting regional employer needs, reaching out to business and the community, and improving access to education. Universities and colleges contribute to the economic development of England's regions, and the report seeks to foster debate about future shaping of that role. Data are presented in charts and graphs for each of the nine regions. Appendix 1 lists data sources. Appendix 2 presents HEFCE regional consultants. Appendix 3 contains useful addresses; Appendix 4 lists the Higher Education Sector Strategy Committee members and terms of reference. (HB)