Concessions won at Queen Mary university

Students at Queen Mary university in London marched into occupation on 27 January in response to Israel’s attacks on Gaza.

Madeleine Levy, QM Socialist Students

Students had discovered that Queen Mary has some involvement in arms companies. We sent demands to the principal hoping that the university could oppose the slaughter in Gaza and end any association with those companies.

We got a statement from the acting principal, endorsing the statement on Gaza issued by Universities UK and supporting calls for an end to the conflict in and beyond Gaza.

Amongst other things he said the college does not currently hold any direct investment in arms manufacturer GKN and will be disposing of its small Cobham holding. He also confirmed that the college will not take action against the protesters.

The occupation was ended after eight days in a good spirit but more meetings are planned to make sure all our demands are met. I am pleased with the outcome and feel very privileged to have been involved with such a passionate debate.

I hope that political activity will continue to thrive at Queen Mary and continue with the tenacity that we have shown, not only to principles but also to the people of Gaza and other students across the UK.