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If Cambridge were excluded from the select band of research institutions likely to benefit from greater government investment because of its governance ("Cambridge status at risk", THES , February 7), it would be unfortunate for the university but, more important, it would destroy the credibility of the selection process, especially when seen internationally.

Good governance is important to all universities. However unusual Cambridge's governance may seem, it has delivered the highest ratings for research and teaching in UK universities since league tables were invented.

The white paper rightly makes much of diversity. Not all universities are the same. I trust the government will hold to the diversity principle in selecting universities to compete with the world's best.

David Harrison
Selwyn College, Cambridge