Sir – It is a matter of some sadness that a group of Oxford University students want to remove the statue of Cecil Rhodes from Oriel College. Leaders of this group argue that the money provided by the Rhodes Trust is somehow ‘tainted’ with blood.

This follows a similar campaign to remove a statue of Rhodes from Queen Victoria Street in Cape Town.

It is self-serving in the extreme to rewrite history in the way that people are seeking to do. Cecil Rhodes made a considerable contribution to the development of Southern Africa both economically and politically at the end of the nineteenth and beginning of the 20th century. His impact on the region exceeded that of any other statesman of his generation, then and since, with perhaps the notable exception of Nelson Mandela.

Rhodes through his Rhodes Trust scholarship fund has enabled tens of thousands of gifted students to benefit from an education at Oxford University and has contributed to the enlightenment of the world as these students venture forth into their chosen occupation.

There are many statues of statesmen and leaders around the world and, particularly in the UK, many of whom committed questionable acts during their careers. Are we now to examine each one and decide whether the late he or she on moral grounds should continue to be represented by a monument or not.

This would seem a descent into anarchy as we would allow a few to decide what we should and should not learn in our history for fear of offending some strict ethical code of decency.

I would say to the students of Oxford University – think again and embrace the rich tapestry of history that many have fought so hard to protect and defend. Leave the statue of Cecil Rhodes at Oriel College for future generations to appreciate.

Nigel Bridle
Middleton Stoney