Letter: College merger

The academic arguments for merger of the Edinburgh College of Art and the University of Edinburgh are widely recognised in both institutions as being immensely strong, but regrettably they are barely touched upon in Gareth Wardell's letter (21 September).

They are fully set out in the draft merger proposal which is accessible to all at www.ed.ac.uk/news/staff-bulletin/eca-merger-080910

Dealing only with his major inaccuracies, the university does not "demand 25 per cent cuts within a year" - rather it will work with the college in securing a financially sustainable future, which will require some reduction in costs but not on this scale.

The university is financially very secure and is able to absorb significant costs associated with merger, whilst looking to the Scottish Funding Council for assistance with other costs. The college's endowments (presumably what Mr Wardell means by "private grants") will be safeguarded.

The university's track record of supporting distinctive institutions with which it has merged is exemplary: contrary to Mr Wardell's assertions, the Dick Vet has an international reputation and will shortly be housed in new, state-of-the-art accommodation at Easter Bush; Moray House has gone from strength to strength since merger with the university 12 years ago, also has an international reputation and many of its activities are now accommodated in new or refurbished buildings.

We look forward to the prospect of welcoming colleagues from Edinburgh College of Art and working with them to build upon our many years of collaboration. The pessimists will be confounded.

MELVYN CORNISH

University Secretary

The University of Edinburgh

South Bridge, Edinburgh