Showing posts with label local. Show all posts
Showing posts with label local. Show all posts

Monday, 17 December 2007

Staffordshire University Caves To Conservative Pressure

Staffordshire University has conceded to calls from Conservative Future to open up the University to democratic activity and allow political parties onto the university campus.

Conservative Future will be on the University campus in Stafford on 11th February, and Stoke-on-Trent campus on 12th February, promoting the Conservative Party and youth politics, as well as inviting students to join the Party.

This is a really welcome decision, and thankfully the Students Union have agreed to hold the 'Who's Speaking For You?' event in February (originally promised for the first semester) after much pressure from CF over the past 6 months, and extensive press coverage. However, it is very disappointing that it has taken this long for the University and Students Union to understand the importance of political freedom and democracy to Staffordshire students.

There is however disappointing news from the University that accompanies this success. In a written statement from the Students Union they state "We ask that you bear in mind that this invitation onto campus is to attend the fair and Question Time events and that canvassing on areas of the campus outside these events is not permitted."

This is extremely disappointing. Although we have made a breakthrough, Staffordshire University Students Union, presumably supported by the University, is still banning legitimate political activity and freedom on the campus. A campus where many students are resident, and therefore entitled to vote. Restricting political activity at all times except these two days is still unacceptable, and CF will continue to push for complete political freedom in Staffordshire University.

Owen Meredith
Area Chairman for Staffordshire CF
Social Secretary, NKCF