Question of ethics

The freedom of the city of Edinburgh has been removed from Aung San Suu Kyi after she refused to condemn the mass killing of Rohingya in Myanmar. A good thing, but could we do more? After Myanmar created a pseudo-democracy, western Governments clambered to recognise it. Companies rushed into the country which is the poorest in the region and seen as ripe for exploitation. Despite genocide they continue to invest, thus legitimising the actions of the regime.

Universities were also aware of the opportunities but most declined to become involved.

However, five UK universities are currently profiting from teaching programmes in Myanmar, despite the abuses.

Edinburgh Napier is one of these, presumably teaching the sons and daughters of the regime – the only people who can afford the fees

Having a respected higher education institution continuing to teach in country allows the government to assume that the international community, if not condones, does not damn their behaviour.

Surely ethics must come before profit, even for cashstrapped universities.

PETER BRADY Leamington Terrace, Edinburgh