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As the UK's principal funders of fundamental research, it is appropriate that our views on the research excellence framework are given such prominence ("Plans for RAE metrics draw fire from research councils", 28 February). As public bodies we have a responsibility, consistent with the principles of the Freedom of Information Act, to make our submissions to inquiries and consultations freely available. It is inaccurate to state that publishing our submission to the REF consultation has a greater significance. The Higher Education Funding Council for England and Research Councils UK share the view that the health of UK research can best be sustained through the dual-support system. To suggest otherwise is highly misleading speculation.

Ian Diamond, Chair, RCUK Executive Group.