A supportive word

Maclean's magazine, somewhat beset by a mob of university presidents falling over themselves to say how they will no longer cooperate with its university rankings, has heard at least one, somewhat unlikely, friendly word. In an editorial, the London Free Press chides the universities (including London-based Western). While it agrees there may be flaws in the methodology, it says "reasonable requests are part of Canadians' right to know."

For years, the Maclean's survey has created a buzz for universities across Canada that they could not have bought at any price.

For a sector that has legitimate complaints about underfunding, the hobbling of a messenger is unfortunate.