Professor Alasdair Smith says Brighton and Hove City Council should not be commenting on education because it has no responsibility (The Argus, January 29).
This is a surprising view coming from a vice-chancellor who is presumably committed to democracy.
It is perfectly proper for councillors to openly debate and take a view on national issues if they feel they affect their constituents.
I have been involved in many such discussions over the years.
Professor Smith also says the council "has precious little expertise". I wonder just what expertise would be adequate in order to comment. After graduating from Sussex University as a mature student, I spent 25 years in education (mainly teaching mature students wishing to enter higher education).
It is precisely that experience which convinces me that top-up fees and a massive loan burden would lead to inequality, which is why I oppose the Bill.
-Councillor Joyce Edmond-Smith, Brighton
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