HIGHER educationists in Northern Ireland havewelcomed proposals for the province. Sir Trevor Smith, Ulster University vice chancellor, praised the recommendation to end the cap on student numbers. Bob Cormack, Queen's University Belfast pro vice chancellor, said: "We welcome the clear recognition of the quality of research in the province." Brian Everett, of the Association of University Teachers, supported the prospect of a higher education funding council. Tony Worthington, Northern Ireland education minister, will hold an autumn conference on the proproposals for the province.