Professor Alasdair Smith says Brighton and Hove City Council should not be commenting on education because it has no responsibility (The Argus, January 29).

This is a surprising view coming from a vice-chancellor who is presumably committed to democracy.

It is perfectly proper for councillors to openly debate and take a view on national issues if they feel they affect their constituents.

I have been involved in many such discussions over the years.

Professor Smith also says the council "has precious little expertise". I wonder just what expertise would be adequate in order to comment. After graduating from Sussex University as a mature student, I spent 25 years in education (mainly teaching mature students wishing to enter higher education).

It is precisely that experience which convinces me that top-up fees and a massive loan burden would lead to inequality, which is why I oppose the Bill.

-Councillor Joyce Edmond-Smith, Brighton