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The University for Industry chief executive says that "we don't talk about polytechnics now" (Teaching, THES , March 23). This is a pity, since the polytechnic spirit of comprehensive access and broad-based, high-level vocational studies is ideally suited to lifelong learning policies, to which the UfI is central. It is ironic universities are being asked to deliver - in terms of access and employment skills - what the so-called "people's universities" were so good at doing.

Terry Hyland
Bolton Institute