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We must protest most vigorously at your front page sensationalist headline (THES, June 7). It was not supported by the article beneath it, your own leader or the facts of the situation. It is the board of governors of Middlesex University and not the vice chancellor, Professor Melville, as claimed in your headline, that is responsible for the university's relationship with senior staff, including the drawing up and negotiation of any severance agreements. Such a responsibility is clearly laid out in our articles of government.

The fact that the vice chancellor signs such documents on behalf of the university does not alter this fact. We stand by the view that any severance agreement that may have been leaked to you does not contain any gagging clauses within any reasonable interpretation of that term. The board of governors of Middlesex University takes great exception to the implications of your article, particularly because of the importance the board attaches to openness in all its dealings.

Edgar Neufeld Chair of the board of governors Middlesex University