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Lee Harvey (Letters, October 15) accepts Bob Brecher's apparently appealingly simple solution of random admissions to undergraduate courses far too readily. His claim that Brecher "demolished" the case for admissions tests is surprising to say the least, given the lack of argument and evidence in Brecher's piece.

The "coaching" problem has been exaggerated, and a well-structured test can indeed measure personal attributes not directly measured or reported by A levels. This is vital for courses that also provide professional training, such as healthcare, regardless of whether they are oversubscribed or undersubscribed.

Until the day comes when the country decides to train an unlimited number of doctors, nurses and physiotherapists - and doesn't care whether they are suitable or not - professional courses will quite rightly seek better ways of selection.

Philip Brown
Reigate