With reference to your article concerning the Israeli ÖйúAƬ Council's (HEC) consideration of licences for British universities to award degrees ("Israel puts Derby on hold", THES, August 6), the HEC gave approval for the University of Derby to continue recruitment up to and including the next semester starting in November, at its centres in Ramat Efal Rishon Lezion, Haifa, Jerusalem, Be'er Sheva and Kfar Saba.

Prior to that decision, the HEC and the University of Derby agreed a signed statement of compliance that the university believes is a vote of confidence in its commitment to providing quality education accessible to all in Israel.

The statement - thought to be a landmark in terms of collaboration between an overseas university and the HEC - provides a framework for even closer working and ensures safeguards in terms of the university's adherence to complex Israeli regulatory requirements.

It has been reported that on August 9, Nehemia Levtzion, head of planning and funding at the HEC, said on Israeli radio that he believed the university was in a good position following its discussions with the HEC.

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Over the past three years, some 7,000 students have been able to study with the University of Derby in Israel - an achievement of which the university is justifiably proud.

Looking forward, Derby is firmly focused on maintaining its position as a leading education provider in Israel and is confident that it will be able to meet the standards set to secure renewal of its licence later this year.

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Roger Waterhouse Vice-chancellor University of Derby