A six-part exploration of university life today
3: The Triple Alliance
Three men in a boat - could one pull out the plug? Running Edinburgh University needs tact, diplomacy and some cunning. As the democratic process of meetings, meetings and more meetings trundles on, the three try to steer a straight course.
While economy cuts are biting deep, it is costing f54 a week for every baby in the students' day nursery. This is the emotive issue that erupts tonight. The Principal's direction is clear. Universities are for learning and the day nursery is an expensive luxury which must go. The Secretary, charged with the efficient running of the University, has exhausted alternatives and regretfully recommends closure. In the chair, the Rector, Liberal leader David Steel , finds the costs ' horrendous'. But the bulk of his electorate were student voters. It takes a triple alliance to find a solution.
Research CAROLYN MCADAM
Film editor JOHN MACDONNELL
Executive producer DAVID MARTIN Producer PATRICK TURLEY BBC Scotland