Critics slam college-uni merger plan

A GROUP of high-profile arts and business figures have criticised plans to carry out a £40 million merger between Edinburgh College of Art and the University of Edinburgh.

Stagecoach tycoon Brian Souter, artist William Baillie, Lady Mathewson, the wife of former RBS chairman Sir George, and arts impresario Richard Demarco are among the signatories of a letter to education minister Mike Russell urging him to block the plans.

The principals of the ECA and University of Edinburgh believe substantial costs could be saved in the long-run, however the signatories' strongly worded letter criticised the process, saying it has been "rushed", "secretive" and amounted to a "hostile" takeover, adding that some staff have already left in protest.

A spokeswoman for the Scottish Government confirmed the letter to the education minister has been received.