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We were saddened by the suggestion that Middlesex University declined to collaborate with Touro College, New York, on the grounds that it is a Jewish college ("Jewish college snubbed", THES , May 31).

The use of the term "Jewishness" by deputy vice-chancellor Ken Goulding refers to the religiously based gender segregation in some Touro academic provision. Middlesex considered this incompatible with its approach to multicultural education. But negotiations on collaboration in non-segregated teaching areas were conducted.

The implication of anti-Semitism is unfounded. The university and Professor Goulding have developed academic associations with various Jewish institutions here and abroad. Geoffrey Alderman's motivation for now making public a two-year-old letter from Goulding remains to be clarified.

David Weitzman
Higher education consultant
Cardiff

Delia Goldring
Human resource director
Jewish Care, London