26 MAY 2001, Page 43

Oxford lows

From Mr J.L.A. Hartley Sir: Professor Richard Dawkins (Letters, 19 May) repudiates the notion that 'Oxford University would ever give an honorary degree to Michael Jackson'. Why this indignation? The university has done much, much worse. It gave an honorary degree to Mrs Ceausescu but denied one to Mrs Thatcher, who was by far the best educated prime minister we have ever had.

J.L.A. Hartley

London W8

From Professor A. Banerjee Sir: I never even imagined that the Oxford Union debating hall could be 'hired for a gig' by outsiders. I am glad that Professor Dawkins has brought me down to earth.

A. Baneriee

Walton-on-Thames, Surrey