Letter: Narrow minded

What factors should determine the award of an honorary degree by a university to an individual? I was surprised Dr David Kennedy chose to protest about Robert Gordon University's decision to confer one on Donald Trump (your report, 29 September). It smacked of intolerance and narrow-mindedness and was unworthy of a former principal of the organisation.

In a spirited radio interview, I heard Dr Kennedy try to justify the handing back of his own award in the following way. Mr Trump was at the centre of fierce controversy in the North-east of Scotland over his proposal to develop a large part of Menie Estate. It was, therefore, inappropriate for the university to bestow an honorary degree on him. He illuminated these remarks with some critical references to some of the American entrepreneur's business methods and his personal style.

It has to be said that if this criteria was widely applied throughout higher education in the United Kingdom, there would be few honorary degrees awarded. Their main purpose is to recognise the contribution of people in all areas of the community and the economy, from the arts to business and politics. The fact their efforts have caused argument and discussion should be welcomed in an educational body, one role of which is to criticise established thinking. Dr Kennedy should have been big enough to recognise that.

BOB TAYLOR

Shiel Court

Glenrothes, Fife