As reported by The Courier in a live blog, Wednesday May 8 saw an escalation in protest from the Newcastle Apartheid Off Campus encampment.
A barrier was formed around all entrances and exits to King’s Gate, making it difficult for those who wish to enter and exit the building,
The newsletter sent out to the student body stated: “The University has been supportive of this right to peaceful protest and lawful freedom of speech and we are committed to this, but it is essential our campus remains a safe space for all.
“Yesterday our attempts at constructive dialogue were not taken in the spirit intended and the protest escalated.
“We have seen evidence that this escalation has been externally co-ordinated and we are working with security and police to ensure the safety and security of our campus.
“The student protestors have been previously reminded of our guidance that enables them to exercise their right to protest in a way that respects our University and our community.”
As reported at 14:23PM on our live blog, Northumbria Police arrived at campus.
In a statement to The Courier a spokesperson told: “We would like to thank everyone involved for their support and cooperation so far during the demonstration.
We will continue to support peaceful and lawful protest, but would, as ever, urge all participants to continue to be respectful of others and their surroundings.”
As confirmed in The Courier live blog, a meeting was offered yesterday (May 8) evening, however no meeting has said to have taken place.
This is allegedly due to no Pro Vice Chancellor being able to attend the meeting, causing the meeting to be scheduled for this morning (May 9). The meeting is still alleged to have not taken place.
