If mad cows are not fatal to the Government, just what else might work instead? An academic pay review body may just be the answer to Tony Blair's dreams as well as those of the Association of University Teachers. According to the AUT survey of MPs' views on a review body, the Lib Dems all think it a good idea, and even Mr Trimble's troops are enthusiastic. On this week's form, even the threat should ensure that the Government funds record pay rises for the staff of Ulster and Queen's. Pity the university community itself seems less than united in the PRB crusade (letters page 13).