Letter: Merger-speak

In the face of ferocious dissent it must come as something of a relief to the Edinburgh College of Art (ECA) and University of Edinburgh that both now approve a merger in principle.

But what is that bizarre phrase coined by the Scottish Funding Council's (SFC) chairman, John McClelland - "To avoid an overlap of provision" (your report, 29 September)? It has the ring of classic vacuous spin.

By overlap of provision does the SFC mean students? Has the university a surfeit of glass and ceramic crafts folk plus facilities duplicating the same number in the art college? Or is he referring to the type and number of meals served at the institution's respective refectory kitchens? In the weeks ahead can we expect more cliches: "enriching academic standards"; "mutual vision" and, of course, "increasing social opportunities for students". More late night parties?

However, if the principals of each body are so desperate to show unity and parity I am sure they won't balk at the ECA taking over the university. No? I wonder why?

Could it be that after the merger the university is in sole charge of income and expenditure?

Gareth Wardell

Northumberland Street Lane

Edinburgh