Professor suspension 'may damage Abertay's reputation' Published duration 3 February 2011

image caption Prof King remains suspended while an investigation is carried out

A former member of Abertay University's governing body has criticised the suspension of principal Bernard King.

BBC Scotland has learned that Derek Douglas, a leading figure in Scottish business, has called for an independent inquiry into the case.

He said he had every confidence in Prof King and was concerned if the suspension was unwarranted, the university's reputation may be damaged.

The university said it would not comment until its inquiry was complete.

Prof King was relieved of his duties earlier this week, while an investigation was launched into a number of issues raised with the university court.

It is understood the move is connected to a disagreement with Abertay's governing body - which is headed up by Nigel Hawkins - over long-term plans for the university.

The vice-principal, Nicholas Terry, was also suspended less than two weeks ago, following what the university said was a separate issue.

Mr Douglas told BBC Scotland's education correspondent Seonag Mackinnon that progress was at risk because of the sudden departure of the principal and the vice-principal.

"People have different agendas and the agenda of Nigel and the agenda of Bernard were different, and Bernard wanted to stay for five years," he said.

"I think what is happening from a public point of view looks a bit mickey mouse and that is not good for the reputation of the university.

"I think if they have got this wrong then this could be a multi-million pound settlement that they're going to have to give Bernard King."

Mr Douglas credited Prof King with the transformation of a technical college into a successful university.