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The failure of Sheffield University to support Aubrey Blumsohn's struggle for academic freedom ("Data row sparks research debate", November 25) echoes the behaviour of the University of Toronto in the Olivieri and Healy scandals. Researchers who refuse to dance to industry's tune find themselves the target of persecution by their universities.

When universities become dependent on drug company money they risk losing sight of their fundamental commitment to truth. Unless the British public rallies behind Blumsohn, few others will be brave enough to defend the core values of research integrity and patient safety.

Arthur Schafer

Director, Centre for Professional and Applied Ethics

University of Manitoba, Canada