You published a letter purporting to be from me online on Monday (15 May) and in your newspaper on Tuesday (16 May).
I did not write this letter, nor did it come from anyone at the IISS. This hoax fundamentally misrepresents our institution and approach to research. I am at a loss as to why The Guardian did not contact my office to confirm its authenticity before publication.
Dr John Chipman
Director-general and CEO, International Institute for Strategic Studies
• Our authentication process was lacking on this occasion. We apologise to Dr Chipman, IISS and our readers. The letter online was taken down after the Guardian was alerted. Pre-publication checking processes for letters are being reviewed.