27 MARCH 1982, Page 15

Premature

Sir: Auberon Waugh's comments about `Doctor' David Owen (13 March) reminded me of a personal experience. When I was a general practitioner I sent my thesis for the degree of Doctor of Medicine to the Registrar of the University of Cambridge, with an accompanying letter. When I ap- proached him, he pointed to my notepaper heading — `Dr Barnsley' — saying drily, 'A little premature, I think, Mister Barnsley. I know it's normal, but it's a pity.' After the ceremony, he presented me with my scroll, saying, 'You may keep your notepaper, Doctor.'

A. Barnsley

Apt 7, The Mansion, Albury Park, Surrey