University court hit by new resignation in merger row

A SENIOR figure at a Scottish university has become the latest to leave the institution ahead of controversial merger talks.

Dr Joe Morrow has resigned as vice-chair of Abertay University’s court as discussions on a merger with Dundee University are due to get under way.

An Abertay spokesman said: “We can confirm that Dr Joe Morrow intimated his intention to resign from court at the last scheduled meeting of court. The post of vice-chair has not yet been filled, as court has not had a scheduled meeting since then.”

Dr Morrow’s departure comes amid anger that the Scottish Funding Council (SFC) is putting pressure on the two institutions to merge in an effort to save money.

SFC chief executive Mark Batho has made it clear he would like to see a decision reached by the end of the month.

Other members to resign from the university court include Justine Curran, Chief Constable of Tayside Police, Bernadette Malone, chief executive of Perth and Kinross Council, and Dundee businessman Bob Doak.

The university spokesman added: “The university can also confirm that Ms Shirley Scott, who retired recently from her post as vice-principal of Adam Smith College, has joined the court of the university.

“A small number of nominations for new members is under consideration.”