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So vice-chancellors have been "seeking to engineer an industrial dispute" ("V-cs accused of stalling on pay offer", THES , July 18). In view of this, and many similar misdemeanours, perhaps a name change would be in order. After all, "Universities UK" suggests a voice representing the entire higher education system, rather than the small but powerful interest group it really is. To correct this false impression, and pay tribute to its undeniable self-importance, I suggest the "Association of Really Senior Executives in Higher (Or Loftier) Education". Of course, a formal name change is not strictly necessary; all that is required is for publications such as The THES to append the appropriate acronym whenever referring to a vice-chancellor by name. This will allow readers to learn not only the owner, but also the nature of the orifice from which any reported opinion has emerged.

Ben Atkinson
Address withheld