Concrete 316

Caroline Lucas >P4

Winter in Norwich >P13 3rd November 2015 Issue 316

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Silent minority: chronic underreporting of sexual harassment >> Only 11 incidents of sexual harassment were reported at UEA during Welcome Week Jessica Frank-Keyes and Felicity Stephenson News editor and news reporter The NUS has claimed that 20% of students experience sexual harassment during their first week at university. Further, 66% of students don’t know how to report it. UUEAS has declined to indicate whether it could have done more to raise awareness of sexual harassment after only a handful of students at UEA reported sexual harasment during Welcome Week.

The Union of UEA Students (UUEAS) has said that only “11 incidents... [of] sexual harassment within our venues” were recorded during UEA’s Welcome Week. The incidents included “staff-witnessed harassing language and behaviour and some incidents reported to us. In each case support was given to victims where possible and identified perpetrators have been subject to action proportionate to the offence including warnings and/or temporary bans in accordance with our Code of Conduct”.

According to the NUS, nationwide a further 29% of the students witnessed sexual harassment during this time. The most common forms of harassment were rape jokes, unwanted sexual comments and heckling in clubs. 59% of these incidents happened at social events or nightclubs

UEA rugby player sentenced for sustained attack on soldier Sam McKinty News editor The former equality and diversity champion of the men’s rugby team was involved in an assault with a member of the public on Prince Wales Road earlier this year and has been sentenced at Norwich Crown Court.

Alistair Zeffertt, a 19-year-old, second-

A Never OK poster in the Red Bar Photo: Jessica Frank-Keyes, Concrete Photography and just over a third happened in halls of residence.

Another issue that emerged from the NUS survey is many students’ lack of knowledge about how to report an incident. Over 60% of the students stated that they were not made

aware of any codes of conducts implemented by their university, and a 66% did not know the procedure to follow in order to report these incidents. 12% of students thought that even if they reported the incident, they would not be taken seriously.

year History student, became involved in an altercation earlier this year. The victim, a serving soldier, had been ejected from a Prince of Wales Road nightclub when he first came in contact with Zeffertt.

The court heard how, according to the prosecuting lawyer Chris Youell, there was a disagreement between the pair that quickly escalted into a physical confontation.

Youell said that Zeffertt became aggressive after being told to “kill himself” by the victim.

Zeffertt then proceeded to carry out what was described as a “sustained assault”.

The attack took place on Cathedral Street, just off of the Prince of Wales road, in the early hours of the morning on 5th June this year.

Assaults on Prince of Wales are extremely commonplace in comparrison to the rest of Norwich. Since 2005, there has been a reported 210% rise in the number of violent

crimes reported in Norwich between 03:00 and 06:00, the typical leaving times for clubbers. According to Norwich City Council,

210

%

The rise in violent crimes reported in Norwich between the hours of 03:00 and 06:00 since 2005

the Prince of Wales Road accounts for 60% of all reported violent crime Norwich.

Court documents indicate that the victim was punched at least six times during the attack, which led to him being knocked to the floor. Zeffertt then proceeded to kick the victim in the head. He continued the attack despite efforts by his friends to pull him away.

The victim suffered a black eye, a chipped tooth, and abrasions to the face.

Zeffertt admitted causing Actual Bodily

A union source told Concrete that “it may not surprise you to learn that students coming forward to venue staff during Welcome Week were very low. This is common across students unions, where students that aren’t aware of schemes don’t automatically assume that venue staff would help”.

UUEAS declined to indicate whether concerted extra effort was put into preventing sexual harassment during Welcome Week, aside from publicising the Good Night Out scheme. A spokesperson said: “Posters and flyers making clear that students can and should come forward regarding sexual harassment under the auspices of the Good Night Out scheme were deployed in Welcome Week. However, as is the experience from other unions, we get little take up until later in the term”.

UUEAS Community, Welfare and Diversity Officer, Jo Swo, told Concrete: “I take Never OK and sexual harassment really seriously...

UUEAS has a zero-tolerance approach to sexual harassment. Our posters were created to inform people what sexual harassment is and to dispel the myths that surround and protect sexual harassment”. She insisted that the union’s priority is to ensure “students are safe in the city as well as on campus… We want to really change the nightlife culture that makes [harassment] acceptable”.

Continued on page 3 Harm in interview earlier this year and, according to reports in the Eastern Daily Press, sobbed as the judge read out his sentence.

Richard Wood, the defence lawyer, told that court that Zeffertt’s actions were “hugely out of character” for the defendant, who has “no previous convictions” and had demonstrated remorse throughout.

Zeffertt was sentenced to a 12-month community order of 200 hours unpaid community work, who told Zeffertt that he should be “ashamed” of his actions, but added that he would “destroy” his life by giving him a custodial sentence, recognising that Zeffertt had shown “considerable remorse” and that the offense was out of character.

Zeffertt was also made the subject of a three-month prohibited activity order, banning him from going to Prince of Wales Road between 19:00 and 07:00.

3rd November 2015

2

Editorial Ana Dukakis

COMMENTcartoon

The University of East Anglia’s independent student newspaper since 1992 Tuesday 3rd November 2015 Issue 316

Union House University of East Anglia Norwich NR4 7TJ www.concrete-online.co.uk

Editors-in-Chief Dan. Falvey Joe Jameson concrete.editor@uea.ac.uk Deputy Editor Peter Sheehan concrete.deputy@uea.ac.uk

Sexual harassment needs to be addressed And UUEAS has to do more to raise awareness

Dan Falvey Editor-in-Chief

T

he NUS’s announcement that 20% of students experience sexual harassment in their first week at university is truly shocking. University is meant to provide students with the opportunity to learn to be independent, while at the same time feeling that they are living in a safe environment where they can study without the fear of being harassed.

However, worse than the figures suggesting that one in five students are subject to unwanted attention is the revelation that nearly two thirds of students aren’t aware that they can report incidents. In our front page article, the Union of UEA Students (UUEAS) says that at UEA there were just 11 reported incidents of sexual harassment during Welcome Week. While it would be nice to think that UEA students are not subject to as many incidents of sexual harassment as the national average, far more likely is that students at UEA are not reporting their experiences. Therefore, UUEAS must do more to help people know that they can talk about any unwanted sexual attention they may have received. The union admits that its attempts to raise awareness of sexual harassment via flyers and posters do not tend to lead to people seeking help until later in the term.

Simply putting up some posters is not enough: UUEAS must be bolder in its plan to minimise sexual harassment so that all students can feel safe on campus.

Last issue, Concrete reported that some

members of the UEA hockey club were under investigation by the union having palayed a sexually orientated game on their way back from an away fixture. While the team was never accused of sexual harassment, they were accused of potentially forcing people to take part in such games against their will due to peer pressure. On page six of this issue of Concrete has publishes an extract from the President of UEA Hockey’s apology for the

“Simply putting up some posters is not enough: UUEAS must be bolder” incident, and his call for sports clubs to attend equality and diversity training.

This is likely to receive mixed reactions: while some may believe that such training goes too far and is patronising, others are likely to believe that these measures are necessary to ensure that UEA is a safe space for all.

This week in Features, Olivia Minnock looks at the topic of representation of students at UEA and the measures that are being considered in order to promote equality and diversity. UUEAS does a good job of trying to ensure that students from a range of backgrounds feel supported at the university, and the use of caucuses as a place for minority students to raise concerns is an important first step.

Writing in our Travel section, Akane Matsumoto, an international student from Japan, talks about her experiences of studying at UEA and highlights exactly why support is needed for certain students. She explains that there is much more to organise as an international student than many of us would

think – for example, setting up British bank account.

“Students and the EU” is the lead article in Global and considers what staying in the EU and leaving the EU could means for students.

Leaving would mean that EU students studying in the UK could face the same skyhigh tuition fees as students from rest of the world. Further still, UK students studying on the continent would also be subject to higher tuition fees. As Matsumoto argues, studying abroad is a fantastic opportunity: it would be a great shame to see barriers to this study being implemented if the UK did not vote to remain in the EU. Caroline Lucas, the Green MP for Brighton Pavilion, also make this point very clear in her exclusive interview with Concrete, printed on page four. She says that many students are so use to the benefits of the EU that they take them for granted and do not realise how different things would be if the UK were to leave. We hope that our article in Global will help students to understand the different arguments for leaving or remaining in the EU and might help ensure that when there eventually is a referendum – whether that be next summer or in 2017 – they are aware of exactly what they are voting on.

As I am sure you can tell, this issue of Concrete is once again full of interesting news and opinion pieces; there’s plenty to read about on a wide variety of subjects.

While we now over half way into the first semester for the academic year, and winter is therefore quickly approaching – read our guide to winter at UEA on the centrespread!

– new members are always welcome to join the Concrete team. If you would like to write for any of the sections in the paper feel free to contact the relevant section editor. Their email address are listed on the right.

Front page credits Top bar, right: Concrete Photography, Billie May Jones. Top bar, left: Rose Hughes for Concrete Correction: In issue 315 the article “Jurgen clocks in as Liverpool’s new manager” by Nick Murphy was wrongly attributed to Esther Veas.

Online Editors Rob Drury Tom Etheridge concrete.online@uea.ac.uk News Jessica Frank-Keyes Sam Mckinty concrete.news@uea.ac.uk Global Caitlin Doherty concrete.global@uea.ac.uk Features Olivia Minnock Alice Mortimer concrete.features@uea.ac.uk Comment Megan Bradbury concrete.comment@uea.ac.uk Science&Environment Jacob Beebe concrete.scienv@uea.ac.uk Travel Dahlia Al-Abdullah concrete.travel@uea.ac.uk Sport James Chesson Tom Gordon concrete.sport@uea.ac.uk Chief Copy Editor Tom Etheridge concrete.copy@uea.ac.uk Principle researcher Sam Naylor email TBC

Editorial inquiries concrete.editor@uea.ac.uk concrete.venue@uea.ac.uk Complaints & corrections concrete.editor@uea.ac.uk

No part of this newspaper may be reproduced by any means without the permission of the Editors-in-Chief, Dan Falvey and Joe Jameson. Published by the Union of UEA Students on behalf of Concrete. Concrete is a UUEAS society, but retains editorial independence as regards content. Opinions expressed herin are those of individual writers, not of Concrete or its editorial team.

3rd November 2015

News

3

General election 2015: student vote not as influential as previously thought >> Page 6

COMMENT Charlie Dwyer takes a look at the NUS’ history of student activism

T Photo: Flickr, EU

National Union of Students joins the proEU Campaign ahead of UK referendum Lucinda Swain News reporter The National Union for Students (NUS) has joined the board of ‘Britain’s Stronger in Europe’, supporting the campaign for continued membership of the European Union. There has been some dispute over the neutrality NUS is supposed to uphold, and by making a gesture in such strong support of a campaign, NUS has been accused of breaking their responsibility to represent all students. Writing in The Independent, the Chair of NUS, Megan Dunn, explained that “Current and future generations have greater opportunities when we are connected to countries we share experiences and resources with. Put simply, working together with nations who share our interests and values makes our country, and our society, stronger”.

She added that the NUS supports Britain’s continued membership of the EU, arguing

Sexual harassment at university going unreported Continued from front page She added: “Unfortunately, sexual harassment and student life are thought to go hand in hand, especially during Freshers’ Week, which is why we’ve pushed Never OK and Good Night Out so hard in the first few weeks: so new students knew the reporting processes and zero-tolerance approach we have in place, so they can use it in the future”.

When asked whether UUEAS had done enough to encourage reporting of harassment, Swo said: “It’s unacceptable that anyone is sexually harassed or feels unsafe.

On the other hand I’m glad that staff are reporting incidents as it shows our training is working”. She suggested that more reports mean fewer unreported incidents: “students

that membership enhances the rights of all students. She continues that cooperation and collaboration are at the heart of the NUS movement, and as president of the National Union of Students, she believes that free movement to study and learn as well as the vital funding we receive from Europe, is not just a benefit of our membership – it is essential for the future of Britain.

Emphasising that leaving would mean voluntarily isolating ourselves from our largest trading partners and a vital source of investment and jobs, the chairman added that “over 200,000 students have studied or worked abroad under the Erasmus education programme since its establishment in 1987, with around 15,000 UK students studying in the EU in 2012 alone, where students were allowed to study without having to spend money on expensive visas”.

She argues that she has not heard “anything from those campaigning for us to leave Europe which explains how they would protect our prosperity by standing on the

world’s side-lines”. Megan Dunn maintains her stance as proud to be part of the campaign as she claims that the EU ‘supports our education sector in Britain and ploughs close to a billion pounds a year into higher education funding and research alone, with students up and down the country today benefitting directly from the courses and resources that come with this money.

This income is increasingly important.

EU funding now provides an additional 15% on top of the UK government’s own science and research budget’. She insists that ‘if we sleepwalked out of the EU, this funding – or at the very least our influence over it – would be at risk’.

The NUS Chairman concluded: “My members; students’ unions and their students all over the UK are clear on this. The campaign ahead must be a positive message; Britain is stronger when we work together.

Students in Britain do not fear today’s modern, diverse world. We fear isolation, not internationalism”.

are no longer accepting [harassment] as part of the student experience”. “[But] there is always more to be done.

We want to expand Never OK into the city, as well as societies and clubs, in the classrooms and in dorms. While I’m unhappy that reports had to be made, I’m glad students are using the resources at hand to report sexual harassment and hold assaulters to account and make them face the punishments”.

The union’s definition of what constitutes sexual harassment is available on its website.

It says: “sexual harassment can include unwanted groping or touching, pinching or smacking of your body, uninvited kisses or bodily contact and sexting or use of private images”.

The union’s definition also includes: “wolf whistling, catcalling, inappropriate sexual comments, sexually based insults, jokes, songs or taunts”.

A second-year English Literature student, who wished to remain anonymous, commented that: “As a female student I have witnessed and experienced sexual harassment on many occasions on campus.

Given the vulnerability of many first year students, especially during Freshers’ Week, I feel that the union really needs to be doing more to ensure everyone’s safety”.

NUS women’s officer, Susuana Amoah, is currently working with nine students unions who have audited their own processes of sexual harassment reporting and investigation and will be supporting many more to carry on this work until students feel aware of how to report sexual harassment, and safe and confident that their concerns will be taken seriously.

Speaking on the issue Amoah said: ““It’s extremely worrying, but not surprising, that so many students in their first term of university have experienced sexual harassment or seen it happen to somebody else”.

This is not the first time Amoah has called on more to be done about sexual harassment.

In the summer the women’s officer said: “We, the student movement and society as a whole, are no longer in a position where we can continue to allow the issues women face on campuses across the UK and beyond to be ignored.

he main point of contention in the NUS’ decision to throw its considerable weight behind the In campaign is the assertion that, as a body which claims to represent every student in the UK, the union should not choose sides in a debate as potentially divisive as this one. In fairness, the logic of this argument is not difficult to grasp. Though it is probably fair to say that, being one of the most notoriously left wing organisations in the country, most who consider themselves to be represented by the NUS would count themselves as pro-Europe. A sizable percentage of the student population are sceptical of, if not openly opposed to, EU membership.

With that in mind, would neutrality not have been the most desirable course? In a word, no.

The NUS has a long and ongoing history of activism, and since the question of Europe is one with the potential to affect students in a very real way, there is no good reason for the union to remain silent simply because an absolute consensus is unlikely to be reached. To respond in such a way would set a dangerous precedent.

There are other campaigns currently being pushed by the NUS – votes for

“The NUS has a long and ongoing history of activism” sixteen year olds and opposition to A-level reform spring to mind – which, though widely agreed upon, a minority of students would likely oppose, and would therefore fall under the same category as the pro-Europe movement.

If all of the NUS’s campaigns are considered with the same scrutiny as the In campaign, the union’s power to affect change would be seriously undermined, and this could lead to the NUS becoming more timid in its decision making, and less dynamic in its actions.Admittedly, the in/out debate is more of a hot button issue than most, but let us not forget that this decision is not one which was made solely by an elite group of union officials, without regard for the opinions of students.

At the most recent national conference, delegates voted “overwhelmingly” in favour of the proposal, and they were absolutely right to do so. The millions of students currently benefitting from EU funding for higher education and research would be worse off if the Out campaign achieved their goal, as would the tens of thousands of UK students who are able to study in Europe without the financial burden of a visa, and this is before we even come to the difficulties which would face the already underrepresented EU students studying in our universities.

Those who would fight for an EU exit would work against the interests of their fellow students. The NUS has acted exactly as we should expect it to.

3rd November 2015

4

News

“The scrapping of mainenance grants is yet one more attack on students” Caroline Lucas, the Green Party’s only MP and former leader, speaks exclusively to Dan Falvey and Peter Sheehan Words by Dan Falvey Editor-in-Chief Over the next five years, students may be an “easy target” for government cuts, Caroline Lucas has claimed. Painting a damning picture in an interview with Concrete, the Green MP indicated that students bear the brunt of government policies and warned that the possibility of the UK leaving the EU could hit students hard.

Lucas spent a couple of days in Norwich and, in amongst her busy schedule, the Brighton Pavillion MP spoke to us about what she thinks the next five years have in store for students.

Sitting in a hardback chair on the sticky floor of UEA’s LCR, Lucas outlined the need for Stronger in Europe, one of the groups campaigning for Britain to remain in the EU, to engage with students: “I think that the in camping, the Stronger in Europe campaign, needs to recognise that if they are to reach out to young people then they need to not just do it in terms of the economy but talking about the kind of society that we want to be”.

Continuing, Lucas argued that failure to expand in this way could mean that students take for granted the benefits of the EU and may not realise just how important a decision they are making in an EU referendum: “I think that most young people are people who are looking outward, who are confident, who take it for granted that they can travel in the EU, study in the EU – they have friends from the EU who are studying alongside them here.

And that adds to our cultural richness. So I think we just need to be making a... case for EU membership that’s not a narrow economic one but [which] is actually about the kind of people we are and the kind of relationship we want to have.

“I think students can absolutely be at the forefront at that. It would be quite a shock to students today to say, well actually you can’t go to study in an EU country and you are not going to be able to have your university colleagues coming here”.

Lucas currently sits on the board of the Stronger in Europe campaign and has a leading role in determining the exact direction that the campaign takes. She wants to ensure that the people who front the campaign, as well as the campaign’s message, is diverse and appeals to everyone. “[We have to make] sure it is not just fronted by business men – because it is usually men – in grey suits, but actually that you have a far wider group of people who are making the case to stay in the EU”.

Moving on from the EU, the Green MP highlighted that the potential of Brexit was not the only threat to students over the course of the current parliament, and argued that the Conservative government’s proposals to

“We need to be making a much stronger case for EU membership that’s not a narrow economic one” scrap the student maintenance grant were also troubling. “I think that the scrapping of maintenance grants is yet one more attack on students” she declared. “It’s being done because the government takes a calculation that students are perhaps less likely to have voted Conservative in the first place, so they feel that they are an easy target for their polices”.

Similar to her beliefs that there needs to be greater awareness of the benefits of the EU for students, Lucas argues that the government managed to announce its intentions to scrap maintenance grants to little public opposition because people are unaware of what is happening. “It is absolutely crucial that we get more people to know that the grants are actually being cut. I think that the general public tend to understand that tuition fees have gone up but I don’t think that many of them understand that there’s been this big change to grants as well”.

Explaining what must be done to raise awareness of the government’s policy, Lucas

said: “I think that [we need] more stories of people who will not go to university – case studies and stories – so that people actually relate to what is happening, so that it’s not just another abstract set of figures but it’s actually about people”.

According to Lucas, the scrapping of maintenance grants is just an example of one area in higher education where action must be taken: “[Maintenance grants are] a part of a broader discussion about the purpose about education. The government has managed to get away with suggesting that students who go to university are simply following their own preferences and that therefore it’s a private decision.

“For me, further education and higher education is a public good: it’s good for all of us that we have more trained engineers or teachers or doctors or whatever – and actually all of the country benefits from this.

I think we need to put education more firmly as a public service and a public good and therefore it makes sense for it to be paid for more publically, [rather] than simply [being] a private contraction between a students and their institution”.

Lucas also claims that her party has the solution on how to fund free higher education and was eager to highlight their viewpoint: “One of the things the Green party has been championing is a proposal from the University College Union. [We are calling for] an education tax, which is just a 4% tax on the largest companies. If you were to increase their corporation tax by a small amount you would be able to get rid of tuition fees and restore grants straight away. The reason I

“It’s not just another abstract set of figures but it’s actually about people” think that this would be a good idea is because business benefits from the fact they have got a trained and educated work force and yet they put nothing into the pot, they’ve made

FACT FILE Caroline Lucas Born 9th December 1960 Educated Universities of Exeter and Kansas Pre-Westminster career Lucas joined the Green party in 1986. She was elected to Oxfordshire County Council in 1993 and the to the European Parliament in 1999.

Leader Lucas was elected Leader of the Green party in 2008. She stodd down in 2012 to “raise the profiles of others aspiring to election” House of Commons Lucas was elected to Parliament, representing Brighton Pavillion in 2010, becoming the Green party’s first and only MP. She was rePhoto: electedBillieMay in 2015. Jones, Concrete PhotographyPhoto: BillieMay Jones, Concrete Photography

Photo: BillieMay Jones, Concrete Photography no contribution to that. I don’t think it will be impossible to change our system to make our system a genuine public good.”

While Lucas illustrated her belief that the next five years could prove to be tough on students, she did offer some small solace to those students dissatisfied with the outcome of May’s general election and the Conservative government’s policies. Optimistically already looking forward to the 2020 general election she said: “The Tory majority, no matter how awful it is that we have one – it is only a majority of 12 and you don’t have to do that much to change that”.

3rd November 2015

5

News Student vote not as powerful as thought during general election Emily Hawkins News reporter

ANALYSIS Peter Sheehan looks behing what Carloine Lucas said

C

aroloine Lucas speaks well. She is sure of her facts, and she is wellversed in the message that she wants to get across. But these are not the halfbaked ramblings of a hard-left has-been. In contrast to what many see as the rose-tinted politics of decades past that is inspiration to Jeremy Corbyn – re-opening the mines, anyone? – Lucas is focused firmly on the future.

Her emphasis on the need to integrate economic and environmental policy sets her far apart from MPs in other parties. This is, of course, unsurprising – she represents the Green party, after all – but it is all the more striking for its being heard less often than perhaps it should. What’s more, she manages to talk about tackling climate change without sounding like a hippy-dippy tree-hugger.

She makes a very good point about the pro-EU campaign. The chair of the official “in” body, Stuart Rose, is very much the business man in a grey suit that Lucas alludes to. Currently the chairman of Ocado and formerly the chief executive of Marks and Spencer, he is undoubtedly the kind of person with whom David Cameron would be happy to associate with – and his appointment is to be welcomed insofar as

it gives the lie to the charge that the EU is inherently anti-business. Yet for all that, he isn’t what you would call an inspiring figure. And younger people are unlikely to be rallied to the pro-EU cause by the man who used to run the shop where their grandmothers buy petticoats.

So it is heartening that Lucas has identified the gap in the market, as it were.

And that she wants to steer the debate away from cold economics and more towards stories and people’s experiences. It’s the kind of strategy that’s more likely to appeal to a younger constituency – in fact, it might well appeal to an older constituency as well.

What is perhaps most surprising is Lucas’s optimism. After David Cameron secured a majority in this year’s general election, many on the left of politics were down-heartened – and all the more so given that the result was so different from what had been predicted only hours before.

Lucas is already looking forward to the next time the country goes to the polls, and she points out that overturning a Conservative majority of only 12 should not be that difficult. For her, it’s not as if the country has lurched irrevocably to the right.

Indeed, in the talk she gave before speaking to Concrete, she says that it was people’s fear of the unknown that played a large part in keep Labour out of power.

The same goes for the coming EU referendum. Not once does she indicate that she fears Britain in heading for the exit. Far from it: the chance to convice the electorate of the benefits of EU membership seems to genuinely exicite her. It’s an outlook that others coiuld learn a lot from.

In a recent report released by the Higher Education Policy Institute (HEPI), it has been claimed that despite all the rhetoric surrounding them, students actually did not have much of an impact on left-wing progress in May’s General Election.

As it stands students can choose between voting in their hometown constituency or in their university one. The document negated pre-election claims that multiple constituencies with a large amount of students would see Labour gain, from the Conservative Party, such as Hendon, Lincoln, and Plymouth Sutton & Devonport. HEPI had previously predicted six ConservativeLabour marginal would be gains for Labour on election night owing to their high student populations – yet only one constituency, Lancaster and Fleetwood, did. The constituency for the University of Loughborough even saw Nicky Morgan, the Conservative’s current Education Minister, not only keep her seat but also increase her majority.

However, the report did prove that a few constituencies, such as Chester, Ealing Central and Acton, were won by Labour owing to “the strength” of the high student vote for Miliband’s party. One of the key aspects of the report is its findings, or rather its conclusion, on the topic of tuition fees as a factor in the way that students voted.

“Superficially, it is possible to argue that the financial settlement for undergraduates in place since 2012 with higher fees and higher loans has had as little impact on voting behaviour as it has had on applications for full-time study,” the recent report states.

This conclusion can also be seen in the way that the Liberal Democrats fared in

New study reveals record numbers are now in graduate jobs Caitlin Doherty Global editor Record numbers of graduates are in professional standard jobs, according to new research by Higher Education charity, Prospects.

The annually produced ‘What do graduates do?’ report, this year revealed the progresses of 276,735 full and part-time degree graduates in January 2015, six months after graduation.

The results show that almost 200,000 of the Class of 2014 cohort were working in the UK just half a year after their graduation day, a significant 6% improvement on the previous year. The total graduate employment rate now stands at 77%, and, positively, 68% of graduates are working in so-called ‘professional level’ jobs, those which empirically require a degree level qualification, an increase of more than 11,000 people on the previous year.

student-heavy constituencies. Lib Dem MPs who rebelled against their party in 2010 by voting against the change to increase fees to £9,000 did not face a different experience to those who supported the change.

HEPI’s analysis also identifies that “before the election, they [the Liberal Democrats] had five of the 20 seats with the highest proportion of students, but afterwards, they only had Leeds North West”. However, regarding the impact on the increase of university fees, the HEPI notes that this is more likely to be a long-term effect, rather than one that would have been significant in 2015.

In Norwich South, Liberal Democrat, Simon Wright lost his seat to Labour’s Clive Lewis. Wright was first elected to parliament

73%

The percentage of students registered to vote in the build up to the 2015 election

in 2010 thanks in part to a large support base amongst students. By 2015 however, many students supported Lewis’s campaign.

With regards to the 2020 election, the document notes that future graduates may be swayed by promises to unwind student loans in the face of their debts. HEPI note that “In 2030, those who began higher education when fees first went up to £9,000 will be in their mid-thirties, which is the average age of first-time homebuyers and a typical age for female graduates to have their first child,” and thus conclude those whose vote was not decided by the 2010 move to increase fees, could be in the years following their graduation.

Having said that, it does seem that little can really be predicted at this moment in time, particularly as it remains to be seen what the impact of boundary changes to constituencies will have on the student vote.

The research also revealed in which geographical areas graduate employment thrives, and it seems that some jobs markets are recuperating significantly quicker than others when it comes to recession recovery.

London was the most popular choice when it came to graduate jobs, however, both the South-East and North-West both offered more than 10% of this year’s graduate jobs.

Equally, the cities of Belfast, Birmingham, Cambridge, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds, Liverpool, Manchester and Oxford, as well as the regions of Essex, Kent and Surrey, just to name a few, offered more than 2,000 graduate jobs each, with an average starting salary of £20,637.

Head of higher education intelligence at Prospects, Charlie Ball, could not be happier

77

percentage of graduate % The who find employment

within six months of leaving university

with these findings: “This cohort started university mid-recession, when the outlook for graduates was the worst than it had been for a generation. They worked hard, they made themselves employable and they have been rewarded”.

However, Mr Ball cautions that these figures should be taken with a pinch of salt and warns against complacency: “Although the graduate jobs market has improved, that doesn’t mean that graduates can just walk into a job. They will still have to work hard to get the jobs they want”.

20th October 2015

6

News

Hockey team disciplined after bus antics Dan Falvey Editor-in-Chief

An investigation by the Union of UEA Students’s has concluded the UEA men’s hockey team broke the union’s code of conduct.

Concrete reported on 20th October that the club were under investigation following the emergence of video footage which appeared to show members of the hockey team participating in a game known as gay chicken in which players are encouraged to attempt to kiss and touch one another and continue until one player chooses to stop due to feeling uncomfortable and therefore is declared the looser and a ‘chicken’.

At the time Richard Shapland, President of Men’s Hockey, told Concrete “I honestly don’t think that anyone was made to feel uncomfortable”. However, following the outcome of the investigation in which the club were deemed to have acted “in contravention of the union’s equal oppotunities policies” Shapland has said “I was wrong”.

In a blog post apologising for the hockey team’s actions – extracts of which can be exclusively read in Concrete (right) – the President not only admits that the club was “wrong for the actions on that bus but has also called “on every sports team in the university to take part in equality and diversity workshops” in order to reduce homophobia in sport.

An apology from the men’s hockey teams Last month we were suspended pending an investigation into an incident. We were shocked at the time - we couldn’t think of anything that was a problem, and I even said in an interview with Concrete that I would “eat my words” if I was wrong.

I was wrong, and it’s time for me to eat my words.

On the bus, we played a game of gay chicken – where players challenge each other physically, the first to pull away loses.

Commonly this manifests itself as kissing, groping etc, and since we are all very competitive, it often gets spirited. Chicken is a relatively common game amongst teenagers, the gay aspect presents itself as we are an all male club.

I see now how terms like ‘homophobic’ and ‘initiations’ could be applied to this game and situation. Like many groups of friends, sports teams and hockey squads before us, we’ve played it before. The difference this time was that we Snapchatted it, and someone who saw it sent it into the union.

I’m glad they did. The problem with the game is that if a gay or bisexual man who was not completely comfortable with his sexuality was present on the bus, he could be made to feel degraded by the game. If someone new to the team does not know us well enough to know that there is an option of saying no, if they don’t feel comfortable talking to me or another senior player about their concerns, then it degrades the team cohesion and their respect for committee members Let me say clearly: we were wrong for the actions on that bus, and I was wrong in

my assessment of the situation. During the union’s investigation, I’ve been reading up on LGBT+ participation in university sportand the findings of an NUS study a couple years ago are stark.

One in five sports club students in the UK aren’t open to their team mates. They cite worrying reasons – that it might result in homophobic, transphobic, or biphobic abuse; concern that they might be ostracised within the team, not get picked, or ejected; and for trans students, worry that coming out might result in verbal or physical abuse.

So I’m calling on every sports team in the university to take part in equality and diversity workshops that we’ll be working with the union to put on. I want every sports club to sign a commitment to driving homophobia and other forms of discrimination out of sport. And I am only too happy to call on everyone – sports club member or not – to tell someone when they hear of or see behaviour that might be discriminatory – however well intentioned.

In so many cases the person or people involved are not aware that it could be offensive to somebody, and when presented with information they can, and will, change their behaviour.

I don’t have excuses or justifications for what happened. What I do know is that we need to work together - UEA, UUEAS and sports clubs to foster an environment where all of us feel comfortable signing up to sports clubs, and taking part in sports teams during welcome week and beyond, and that means reminding those of us that run sports teams the impact of things that we might personally find comfortable, can have on others and sport in general.

Richard Shapland, President of Men’s Hockey

Photo: Flickr, 1gl

Poll: students want to see lecturer qualifications Isaac Scoulding News reporter A recent online poll has revealed that many students believe university lecturers’ qualifications should be made public.

The Student Room, a popular online student community that attracts over eight million visitors each month, surveyed 500 university students from the UK between 11th and 26th September 2015, finding that 77% of those polled believed that the qualifications of university lecturers should be made publicly available, for example on the university website or in prospectuses.

Of those polled 77% also believed that it was important that their lecturers had some kind of teaching qualification, with one in five

students saying this would definitely affect where they chose to study. 50% stated that it may affect their decision, while only 26% said that it would not affect their decision at all.

This comes just months after the Universities Minister, Jo Johnson proposed a

77%

The percentage of students who believe that the academic qualifications of lecturers should be made publicly available.

teaching excellence framework, whereby the government will monitor and assess the quality of teaching in English universities to ensure that all students are receiving an excellent education.

However, only 9% of students polled

thought that the most important quality of a university lecturer was a teaching qualification.

Instead, 60% of those polled thought that a deep level of knowledge in the subject being taught was the most important. Other characteristics seen as important were a passion for the subject (22%) and empathy for students (9%).

Jack Wallington, community director at The Student Room, said the website “aims to provide as much information as possible on university choices, so students are in a position to make the best decisions on their educational career.” For this reason, he states The Student Room “support any moves to make this information freely available”.

It remains to be seen whether the proposed teaching excellence famework will impose stricter regulations on those who can teach at universities in the UK.

University appeals process in chaos Sam McKinty News editor Students at UEA have been left in confusion this week over a lack of consistency in the way the university’s appeals process has been applied. Speaking to Concrete, one student, who has chosen to remain anonymous, expressed their concern that there is “a complete absence of communication” and a “seeming lack of concrete policy on resits and appeals” from the university’s Learning and Teaching Service.

According to UEA’s Appeals and Regulations document, all students joining from September 2013 must pass all modules on their course of study in order to progress to the next year, adding that academic appeals are intended to “allow the formal raising of concerns by UEA students undertaking taught and research programmes regarding their academic results”.

However, some students who have spoken to Concrete did not appear to have had the policy applied consistently.

Whilst some of the students awaiting the outcome of their appeal have been allowed to continue to attend lectures and seminars, having been provided a full timetable for the continuation of their course, some students have been told they will not be allowed to continue their studies this year, regardless of the outcome of their appeal and would instead have to continue their studies starting September 2016 if their appeal was successful. The only difference lies in the nature of what happened, with the student who was allowed to continue their studies having to re-sit an examination, whilst the other had to launch an appeal over their coursework in which they did not receive the required 40%.

This lack of consistency in the way the re-sit and appeals policy has be applied has caused concern for some students. Ben Hardy, a second year economics student who came close to having to re-sit an exam last year, said “it’s concerning that I could’ve been in this situation. Despite the apparent clarity in UEA’s policy, which you’d think would at least offer students some sort of guarantee of equal treatment, it seems that UEA applying the policy how they see fit”.

Connor Rand, the Union of UEA Students’ Undergraduate Education Officer, commented that “it’s really important to students that regulations are applied consistently across the University, especially in such stressful circumstances as reassessment appeals.

There appears to be confusion amongst students and even some staff over whether students should be attending contact hours whilst waiting to hear the outcome of their appeal and overall, I don’t think reassessment works as well as it should for students”. He added that “I’ve already raised this with the university and I’ll be continuing to make this case over the course of the year”.

Reassessment and appeals procedures will be “on the agenda for my next undergraduate education forum and an ongoing discussion over the course of the year”.

While all the students who have spoken to Concrete have now received the results of their examination resits and appeals, they told us that they’ve “lost confidence” in the appeals process, and are concerned they may have a similar experience if it happened again.

The university has been contacted for a comment on the issue but are so far yet to respond.

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meal deals, snacks, pens, clothes, nus cards fast . find us in union house

3rd November 2015

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Global

Students and the EU: in or out? the centralisation of power in Brussels and open-door immigration rules have damaged the UK. Nigel Farage told Radio 4’s Today programme: “We’ve opened the door [to] millions and millions of people”, believing that continuing to allow the free movement of people could compromise British security and our standards of living.

However, they have also confirmed a few educational policies. Despite the explicit changes that would be made to the British education system as a result of Brexit,

Lucas Cuminskey Global writer Sometime before 2017, the Conservative government has promised to hold a referendum on Britain’s membership of the European Union. The last referendum on Britain’s relationship to the EU was in 1975, when the electorate endorsed membership of the European Economic Community.

As students and young people, we find ourselves in an odd socio-financial situation; at a turning point in our lives, neither dependent nor independent. However, education on this ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ issue, is undeniably key to this pivotal political decision.

What should we be considering when thinking about this important decision? What would be the realities of staying in, or opting out of the EU, for both students, and the young demographic as a whole?

125000

Voting for in

Labour and the Liberal Democrats, along with 133 vice chancellors of UK universities will all argue for the In campaign; they would all like us to remain as part of the EU. However, all three of the major parties have confirmed that they will be fighting for the British chair to remain at EU meetings. Naturally, these three all have different political demands in terms of what they would like changed.

The university vice chancellors argue our EU membership is allowing 125,000 EU students to study in Britain and that 14% of academic staff at British universities are EU nationals. This in turn creates nearly 20,000 jobs and contributes around £2bn to the economy.

A recent survey by The Complete University guide reveals that leaving the EU would allow

Tsipras, Corbyn and Trudeau: is the world is rejecting the right?

Ollie Watts Global Writer Two weeks ago, Canada went to the polls and ended ten years of Conservative rule, voting in Justin Trudeau of the Liberal Party to replace outgoing prime minister, Stephen Harper.

Trudeau and his Liberal Party have joined Greece’s radical-left Syriza Party as one of a number of left-wing major world governments to be elected in recent months.

Correspondingly, there has been a somewhat simultaneous rejection of the right, with Australia ousting its right-wing prime minister, Tony Abbott, and the UK Labour party electing the ardently left-wing Jeremy Corbyn as Leader of the Opposition.

To say for certain, however, that the world is renouncing the right is simply naïve. Only a small number influential nations, those who hold and maintain economic and diplomatic clout, have actually displayed some sort of attraction to left-wing politics in favour of those of the right. Whilst Canada has clearly turned away from conservatism for something ‘new’, countries such as Switzerland, Poland, and even the UK have turned toward right-

The European Parliament building in Strasbourg Photo: Flickr, European Parliament the government to hike tuition fees, yet again, for European students in Britain. This means that fees for EU students could rise form the currently capped £9,000 per year to an expected £12,000 per year.

Those in support of the In campaign believe that this will damage British diversity and potentially alter industries such as medicine and law that receive a great number of international student applicants, as well as damaging the Bologna Process. A system that guarantees educational equality across

Europe, the process brings all European qualifications into harmony. For example, a history or teaching qualification gained in the UK would equal the same qualification in Europe, and therefore make looking for work abroad easier.

wing policy. The rise of the left almost comes across as more anti-establishment than anti right.

On the 25th October, Poland’s electorate voted to give an outright majority to the country’s Law and Justice Party. Formed in 2001, the favour towards this relatively young “National Conservative” party has consolidated the nation’s ideological shift to the right that has been bubbling away since last decade’s economic downturn. The

politics. Just as Syrzia swept to victory with an overwhelming majority, Jeremy Corbyn’s landslide leadership win signifies an ardent shift to the left in Britain. However, during May’s general election, the so-called ‘silent majority’ helped the Conservative party to increase its number of seats in Parliament and win an outright majority. A clear display that, in comparison to Miliband’s Labour, rightwing policy measures were more desirable.

To compound the attractiveness of right wing politics to the electorate, Ukip, despite not making any gains on their Clacton seat, they did win around three million votes, a huge increase on 2010. The prominent issues surrounding the 2015 general election were the economy, the EU, and immigration. The Conservative voter would assert that these are all policy areas in which there should be more

“To say for certain that the world is rejecting the right is simply naive” people explicitly voted in favour of right-wing policy, giving firm support to a Eurosceptic, anti-immigration party that favours stricter controls on welfare spending and has threatened to outlaw abortion.

In addition, when Switzerland went to the polls just a week prior to Poland, it too voted in favour of right-wing policy. The ultraconservative Swiss People’s Party secured almost 30% of the vote; whilst not enough to secure power, this signified yet another shift to the right within Europe. The strengthening support for the party, and particularly its anti-immigration policies, has been deemed by many political commentators as an early indication of the results of the Syrian Humanitarian Crisis.

These two recent political results ultimately challenge the suggestion that there is a widespread rejection of the right.

Interestingly, if we look at the politics of the UK, we can see the divide that is currently characterising European and world

Voting for out

The Out campaign will be spearheaded by Ukip with possible support from a number of Eurosceptic Conservative MPs. Their primary line of argument is that

The number of EU students currently studying in the UK

advocates of the Out campaign believe that this change would actually have a positive effect on our university system.

According to Jonathan Arnott, a Ukip MEP, a reduction in EU bureaucratic spending would mean an increase in university spending: it “would ensure that funding for research would be maintained, which of course you could do with the money that would be there from leaving the EU”.

The damage from the restrictions upon international students and having to leave the Horizon scheme would be effectively rectified through money-saving measures elsewhere.

It seems the crux of the debate for both the In and Out campaigns will be mobility. Whilst the No side does have several educational policies, it will emphasise the perceived dangers of complete freedom of movement within the EU, with special emphasis on net migration, living standards and national security. Whereas the Yes campaign will champion the benefits of free movement to educational standards, research and Britain’s international standing.

“If we look at the politics of the UK we can see the divide that is characterising European and World politics” faith in right-wing politics than left.

These same issues have also been the top priorities to other nations in the European Union, such as Switzerland and Poland.

Results like these could in fact be an omen of rising support for the far-right parties in Europe, which would suggest the continent is far from a rejection of right-wing ideas.

Is this ‘growth of the left’ merely a case of minority groups merely making a lot of noise, with, apparently little substance to challenge the established conservative policies?

Photo: Flickr, Lorenzo Gaudenzi

3rd November 2015

9

Global Two killed in Swedish school attack There were scenes of terror in Sweden after a pupil and teacher were stabbed to death, and another two individuals were seriously injured at Kronan School, Trollhättan.

The masked attacker, Anton Lundin Pettersson, was dressed in all black with a mask not dissimilar from Darth Vader and he posed with pupils for photographs before the attack began – some of the pupils believing it was some sort of early Halloween prank.

Police arrived to find one teacher dead with the other victims in a serious condition.

One 17-year-old pupil died in hospital, while a pupil and teacher, aged 15 and 41 respectively, were taken to hospital in a critical condition.

Pettersson was shot dead by police.

The Swedish Prime Minister, Stefan Löfven, described it as “a black day for Sweden” whilst King Carl Gustaf said the country was ‘“in shock” after the attack.

After searching Pettersson’s home and gathering evidence on how he selected his victims, police have stated that that the he was driven by racist motives when he carried out the act’. Swedish media have reported that he admired Adolf Hitler and Nazi Germany and disliked Islam and immigration.

This event comes after an attack in August by a failed asylum seeker in an Ikea. One person was killed.

Matt Howard & Caitlin Doherty Chinese government bans golf for party members China’s ruling Communist Party has updated its party discipline rules, adding membership of a golf club to a list of activities that are banned.

from the party.

Natalie Froome

ROUNDUP

360

Apparently part of an on-going anticorruption drive, the new rules does not explain why joining a golf club is forbidden. But in the past, similar sports clubs have been perceived as the location for shady deals between businessmen and government officials. The Chinese president, Xi Jinping, has made it his goal to tackle corruption within the Communist Party since taking office three years ago.

This is not the first time that golf has been the target of the party. In 2004 the building of new golf courses was banned, a move that was welcomed by environmentalists who had expressed concerns about the effect of newly built courses on ecosystems.

However, these rules have not always been followed. In March 2015, 66 illegally built courses were shut down. If party members are found to be violating the new club membership rule they can expect a warning or expulsion

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China abandons one-child policy China’s ruling Communist Party has decided to end it’s one-child policy, allowing parents to have two children for the first time in more than three decades.

Originally adopted in 1979, the controversial policy was designed to slow China’s 20th Century population explosion.

Despite exempting twins, and allowing a second child in rural areas if the first was female, it is believed that the policy has prevented more than 400 million births, and, in direct contradiction to the policy’s original motivation, the government has faced pressure to end it as a result of the rapidly ageing population. Those over 65 now represent more than 15% of China’s working population.

Couples who violated the policy originally faced harsh punishments if caught: arrests, fines, the loss of employment and forced abortions have all been reported as direct consequences of the law. However, over time, authorities have gradually taken a lighter approach to the policy. Official relaxation of the rules began two years ago, as Beijing stated that couples were allowed to have more than one child if at least one of the parenting couple was an only child themselves. Given the longevity of the policy, this obviously allowed many young couples the chance of a larger family.

Caitlin Doherty Photos Left: Flickr, Foreign Office Graphic: Wikimedia, US government

Features

3rd November 2015

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How well are you represented at UEA? >>Page 14

US school shootings

T

Megan Baynes is a UEA study abroad students spending the year in Massachusetts. Here’s what she has to say about America’s attitude to firearms...

hursday 1st October was a standard day in Worcester, Massachusetts. It wasn’t until Friday morning, when meeting a friend for lunch, that I realised something had happened.

“Did you hear about the attack in Oregon?”

The question was asked in passing. I had heard briefly online, but it seemed a million miles away from the bubble of Clark University. It was only when I began to look into America’s relationship with school shootings that the reality became scarily close to home: on the evening of 6th October, a shooting threat was made against Worcester State University, less than a mile up the road from where I am currently living.

The school went into meltdown. Students were threatening to skip classes, or leaving to go home, military trainees were offering to walk students to their lectures, and police were searching the dorms. I write this less than 24 hours after, and with no word yet from the police we can only assume that they decided there was not a threat and life has begun to return to normal. But it has made me realise, there is a not-so-hidden dark side to American life.

When talking to my friends about Oregon, one told me, “It’s exhausting to hear about these things and them treat with the respect and seriousness they deserve when they happen all the time. You almost respond with a sort of ‘Really? Again? Already? attitude”.

Many thought that the Sandy Hook shooting in 2012 would bring gun control to America, but the Umpqua Community College shooting is the 994th mass gun attack in three years. 142 of those were school shootings. By comparison, the last massacre in the United Kingdom was in June 2010. Even President Obama is saying the events at Oregon are becoming “routine”, as America “has become numb”.

“We are the only advanced country on earth that sees these kinds of mass shootings every few months”, he said.

I never thought I would have to consider what I would do if, one day, a gunman came

President Obama holding a minute’s silence for the victims of a mass shoting in the US Photo: the White House, Peter Souza onto my university campus. I study at UEA, a place so safe it’s impossible to imagine such an event. But for many of my American friends, and as I learnt this week, this is a shockingly mundane reality.

As we spoke about Oregon over lunch, another friend confided in me, “I want to be a teacher, but these kind of shootings scare me. It’s something I’d worry about every day”.

It is one thing to fear death by gunfire in a war zone: what does it say when a potential teacher fears to step into a classroom?

But many of the people surrounding me don’t believe that gun control is a very realistic

answer. Because the second amendment is so engrained in the psyche of the country, it would be an impossible task to now reign in gun usage.

They also argue that mental health should come under scrutiny, and a better deterrent would be for America to start having the conversation about how to recognise and treat those with mental health issues. If Christopher Harper-Mercer had been given help would he still have killed just a few days ago?

As I travelled from Norwich to the US, I could never have imagined the apathy that would face me concerning gun control and

mass shootings. I cannot imagine a similar incident taking place in a small town near me and not immediately panicking. Everyone has an opinion on gun control – indeed 92% of Americans want background checks for gun purchases put in place – but it seems the nation has indeed become immune to the everyday reality.

My campus police carry guns, and protocols are in place should an event happen.

But I can’t help but wonder if, rather than a plan in case of attack, there should be a movement to deter these events in the first place.

It’s 2015: where’s my flying car?

I

n ‘Back to the Future: Part II’, Marty McFly travels 30 years into the future.

That future? The 21st of October 2015. But rather than being greeted (or not so much) with a generation glued either to an iPhone or a copy of Fifty Shades of Grey, McFly is confronted with self-lacing shoes, flying cars and hovercrafts. It seems the “future” isn’t all it’s cracked up to be.

In past decades, the year 2000 was thought of as incredibly futuristic. I was a nineties baby, so I’m clueless – but I’m pretty sure we were never going to wake up on 1st January 2000 to find a flying car sitting in our driveway.

2015 is not quite how we expected, but there have been many technological advancements since Marty’s time, which I am sure he would have been at least partially impressed by.

Following Back to the Future day on the 21st October, Alice Mortimer takes a look at the future we were all promised and the reality of the present day

Mobile phones Although the first mobile phone was developed in the eighties, no

Skype Video calling is another piece of communicative technology which has

one actually had one. Today, it’s most likely to be in your pocket or within reach 24/7.

According to recent research, most people would rather lose their sense of smell than their smartphone. With mobile phones not much thicker than paper, we can make phone calls to the other side of the world, prank call younger siblings, and send drunken text messages to exes – what’s not to love?!

revolutionised our relationships with those we are unable to physically be with. Introducing your grandparents to Skype has to be one of the best things ever, and I would imagine Marty McFly would have the similar reaction of “oh I can see you!” Brilliant. iPods Back in the eighties there were portable cassette players but nothing sleek enough to feel weightless and nothing with enough memory to store the thousands of songs we can now. In fact, most of us now listen to music from our phones, where we can also make phone calls, social network, play video and pretty much do anything – oh, so magical.

Google I honestly wonder how people knew how to do things without Google. Launched in 1998, I have existed in a time where Google was unheard of (thank God I didn’t really need to source any knowledge apart from how to throw the perfect tantrum at that point in my

life). But how did my parents cope without it?

How did university students know the perfect way to cook a jacket potato, and how did they know what their lecturers were actually on about?

3D printers It’s not quite like when machines just generate random objects as we see in futuristic science-fiction films, but it kind of is 1st apparently 3D-printed engagement rings exist now too. It’s okay, everyone, only as a prototypes.

A lot of technologies have only come about within the last decade or so, which just goes to show what can happen in such little time.

It cannot be denied that there’s been drastic advancements since the film’s main setting in 1985, but I do still have to tie my own shoe laces.

Not quite Marty McFly’s future, but we’re getting there.

3rd November 2015

12

Features

The guide to the

The winter depression: seasonal affective disorder Cat Curbishley gives us an insight into seasonal affective disorder and explains why winter can be a dark time for many

W

ith summer now just a distant memory, we must bid farewell to the long, sunny days that filled us with joy. We will grow to miss the crunchy orange leaves which blanketed the ground making the fields burn with colour, eating the odd ice-cream because it was still pleasant enough to do so, and the warm romantic evenings that autumn has given us. We have become accustomed to waking up to the pleasant sounds of the summer birds outside our windows, begging for us to get up. We will no longer be able to get away with a simple jumper for warmth, or getting back from our seminars before the sun starts setting and we are left with darkness. The mere sight of seeing anyone wear less than a jacket, scarf or jumper will turn you red with anger.

But why, you may ask, are we being deprived of such sweet things? Why have we got to say goodbye to the sun and warmth we hold so dear? What have we done to deserve this horrible change in weather?

Well, the answer is simple: Winter is coming. But some people have more to worry about than the odd cold or stuffy nose. The sudden change in climate can influence people’s behavior and emotions on top of affecting people’s physical condition. The ‘winter blues’ is a serious problem, and it can leave people feeling helpless, alone and depressed.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (also known as Sad) is a very common depressive disorder that only occurs during the winter season, and almost always disappears once the weather starts getting better again. It is most common in the winter, as the days

“Some people have more to worry about than the odd cold or stuffy nose” get shorter, there is less sun and we are less able to do things outdoors. Around 6% of people around the world suffer from seasonal affective disorder, and 20% of people report having a mild version of SAD; perhaps feeling a little down or slightly less motivated and disinterested in things during the winter.

The most common symptoms one experiences when suffering with Sad are very much like the symptoms for clinical depression: lack of energy and motivation to complete everyday

Photograph: Flickr, Fox valley Institute

tasks, loss of concentration and having sleeping issues, feeling sad and lonely, having anxiety attacks, experiencing mood swings, overeating as a form of an emotional binge, loss in sexual libido and alcohol or drug abuse as a form of self-medication.

These symptoms, as one can imagine, can take their toll on our mental and physical health over time, along with hindering our academic performance at university. It can affect our relationships with others, causing tensions and disagreements as we are not feeling 100% ourselves.

The exact causes of Sad are relatively unknown as changes in the weather and daylight can affect people in different ways.

Everyone’s brains work differently. However, there are many theories as to why seasonal changes may trigger this depression and anxiety in some people. One theory is that the lack of natural

“20% of people report having a mild version of Sad” lighting causes our bodies to stop functioning properly as the hypothalamus (the part of the brain that receives messages) is not getting enough messages from the retina (back of the eye).

When it is sunny outside, light hits the back of our eye into our retina and transmits signals to the brain. These signals control how much we sleep, eat, our sexual drive, our mood. So, when there is a lack of lighting outside, the amount of messages travelling to our brain decreases, causing mental instability and the symptoms listed above.

A

change in our ‘body clock’ could also be a reason as to why people experience Sad. Some say that people who have to deal with the condition haven’t got a ‘body clock’ that can adapt to the changes in light that a new season provides us, and so begins to slow down. This irregularity is also seen with the levels of serotonin in our brains. People experiencing Sad or some sort of depression have been found to have lower levels of serotonin than they should do. Serotonin is our ‘happy drug’, the chemical in our brain that controls our moods and keeps them in balance. So when our brains are not producing enough serotonin, this is when people start experiencing mood swings or very long periods of feeling depressed and low.

For those who experience symptoms of Sad at the mild end, most probably many current readers, there are many ways in which depressive symptoms can be alleviated during the winder period, and ways in which you can help yourself.

One way would be to allow yourself to experience more natural lighting. Go for a walk during the day, which will help alleviate stress, get some fresh air and allow your brain to take in more light. Exercising and participating in sport outside is also a massive bonus, as it helps increase energy levels and produce the chemical dopamine. Eating a healthy diet also allows this increase in energy, and taking in more B12 has been noted as helping some people with Sad symptoms. However, if these natural remedies don’t seem to work, you could always consider purchasing a light lox. The light box helps give you more light (obviously) throughout the day, and so increasing the level of serotonin in your brain. Using it for two to four hours a day has had positive reviews and results, and can help alleviate symptoms in the long run.

If you start experiencing some of the symptoms mentioned, the most important thing is to talk to someone. The university provides great counselling services, although even just talking to a friend can help. Winter doesn’t have to be a bad time, and Sad and its symptoms can be defeated.

Illustration by Rose H Snowflake from

3rd November 2015

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Features

e coming winter

Hughes for Concrete m pixabay.com

Winter in the fine city Lucinda Swain explains why you should be exploring Norwich rather than sitting at home with Netflix this winter

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orwich has a thriving arts scene with events drawing performers and audiences from around the world.

With festivals in fashion, cuisine, books, and beer there is always something for every interest. However, now that the evenings are drawing in, you could be forgiven for feeling as if your only option is to stay in and watch Netflix with a hot chocolate. But there are some great events coming up in Norwich not to be missed. From cosy pubs socials, night time walks, and places to visit during the day, there’s still plenty to occupy your time in these upcoming winter months.

On Friday 6th November 19:30-20:00 the ‘Big Boom’!

Norwich Castle’s wonderful annual firework display is definitely worth a visit as it is both spectacular and free.

Norwich hosts a magical Christmas market on Saturday 14th November from 10:00-15:00. Again, this is free and features local food and artisan craft stands in St Helen's Square. There will be a Norfolk drink Keller organised by beer sommelier Cheryl Cade in the Refectory. There will be workshops and stands in the Birkbeck Hall with gluten-free demonstrations by master chef, Steve Thorpe, Sara’s Kitchen and Norfolk Gluten Free.

The Norwich Christmas Lights Switch-On, 19th November 18:00-20:00, is also another noteworthy event. So why not wrap up warm and go out for some music, entertainment, fireworks and a sparkling light show. There’s no better way to celebrate the beginning of the holiday season. The switch-on

“You could be forgiven for feeling as if your only option is to stay in and watch Netflix” is organised by Norwich City Council and they have lined up some great acts and performances on the streets and outside City Hall and The Forum. With Father Christmas making an appearance on his sleigh, followed by a parade of twinkling lanterns, it is set to be a magical night. There will be gospel singers, acrobats, traditional pantomime dames, dancers and singers from the Garage.

Or why not spend a day exploring Norwich’s bohemian atmosphere. Norwich Lanes is crammed with independent vintage shops selling all number of quirky and odd items.

With events taking place every night in shabby chic cafés and lamplight bars. On St Benedict’s Street is a popular favourite -the Bicycle Shop- a multi-purpose space that hosts all number of occasions from live music events several nights a week, to book readings. Norwich Arts Centre also features a notable assortment of music nights and accommodates courses in creative writing and photography. The centre delivers a daily programme of live music, theatre, dance, live art, and visual art.

The Birdcage is considered to be a ‘hipster haunt’ with its retro feel and poetry nights, it is also a must see. Promising to be ‘open every day for wines, Wi-Fi, work and play, coffee, cupcakes, cabaret and cocktails, board games, Bloody Marys and a bit of bohemia’. Or if movies are your thing, Cinema City offers an eclectic collection of films from the latest blockbusters to the latest in foreign cinema. It even occasionally screens Audrey Hepburn movies and mini-festivals celebrating movie legends such as Woody Allen. Norwich Playhouse must have an honourable mention with its vast variety of theatre performances, as it boasts one of the ‘best beer gardens in the city’.

Photograph: Flickr, Christian Bortes Yet another free event, on 4 to 5th December, Norwich’s Global Village Christmas Market offers great crafts and gifts from all over the globe, warming world cuisine, and mulled wine. With Father Christmas making another appearance on

“Norwich’s Global Village Christmas Market offers great crafts and gifts from all over the globe” the Saturday, and festive storytelling at the children's library from an African storyteller on the Friday morning (you must book your free tickets ahead of time).

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rank’s Bar is worth a visit with artwork covering the walls and Sunday screenings of classic films; it’s the perfect place for a casual meet with friends. The Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts always offers great exhibitions and workshops to suit any art lover. The Forum which houses the Millennium Library and BBC Look East, is a thriving hub of activity that always has something to offer, so keep your eyes peeled. October saw Castle Mall’s free Zombie Spooktacular, Slam nights giving local talent a platform, the Spooky City parade and ghost walks. It seems the next few months are going to be just as exciting.

So this winter layer up, go out, and enjoy some of the wonders Norwich has to offer.

3rd November 2015

14

Features

How well does UEA represent you?

Olivia Minnock offers a round-up of the things being done to promote equality and diversity at UEA, and asks whether minorities and majorities are being well-represented on our campus

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rom 19th to 23rd October, UEA celebrated Asexual (Ace) Awareness week. This was the first time the week has been publicised on campus, with events taking place each day to heighten people’s awareness of asexuality as well as engagement with UEA’s Media Collective and UEA Publishers. To cut a long story short, it was kind of a big deal. At Thursday’s union council meeting, LGBT+ caucus’ ace rep, Eliott Simpson, brought forward a motion to make asexual awarness week an official annual event, as well as expanding the campaign to include those who identify as aromantic.

The motion was passed and this reflected the success of the week as a whole, as well as UEA’s long-held attitude of inclusion and support for minorities. Simpson commented that the campaign “has been a tremendous success for spreading better understanding of one of the university’s more overlooked communities, and for allowing students that may be uncertain of their own identity to now feel more comfortable in the knowledge that numerous alternative spectrums do exist”.

This is just one small example of the lengths the Union of UEA Students (UUEAS) goes to in celebrating diversity. All kinds of ethnicities, sexualities and genders are welcomed and our union encourages inclusion and makes efforts to ensure every student feels welcome on campus, no matter who they are or where they’re from. It’s a nobrainer, really.

However, like anything involving human beings, UEA and UUEAS don’t always get everything spot on. It’s often said that the rights of certain students are pushed forward at the expense of others, and issues of equality remain a problem for many students. There is also unfortunately an attitude developing towards UEA as a militant left-wing university which places political correctness and pedantry before many other important

issues.

Who is to say where the balance is? It must be admitted that, despite the apparent over-reaction of union officers at times, intentions are always based around equality and inclusion. Sombrero-gate was for many students an embarrassment for UEA, with some stating it as an overreaction and in an article from BBC Mundo (the BBC’s Spanishlanguage division) online, the chairman of the British Mexican society stated that he

“The union don’t always get everything spot on” felt the Mexican community themselves would not have objected to Mexican cuisine being marketed in this way. It’s this kind of perceived overreaction which sparks debates – but they are certainly debates worth having.

As ethnic minorities officer Hussam Hussein has stated -and, admittedly, has probably been over-quoted by now: “I’m not sure if we got #sombrerogate right – but I’m glad we’re having the debate... I’m proud that this is a university where our student leaders are prepared to stand up and challenge and confront discrimination on campus and in wider society”.

And he’s right. UEA may not always please everyone, and may be struggling against a reputation of a haven for hemp-munching hippy-liberal students and nobody else, but every incident or argument like this comes from a thought pattern and culture within our university which asks: “Is this okay? Am I making everyone feel comfortable? Are we treating everyone equally regardless of background or characteristic?” One could certainly argue that bringing up debates and questions is often more important than getting things right all the time: this, after all, is the purpose of higher education.

The current academic year has already seen lots being done for students on large and small scales to promote effective representation, support and inclusion. The introduction of gender-neutral toilets on campus has been largely a success – however one could point out that only half the cubicles in the Hive contain sanitary bins. Furthermore, some students have stated they feel less safe in a gender-neutral environment, on club nights for example – but this has been made less of an issue by leaving the option of genderspecific toilets in the Blue Bar. Even debates about the toilets being less well-kept than previously have been quashed, with Westley Barnes describing them as “the cleanest I’ve seen in a university”. All in all, the introduction appears to have passed without incident and has fulfilled its aim in allowing trans and non-binary students at UEA to “pee in peace”.

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lack history month was celebrated this October, and involved various stalls in the Hive, open mic nights, film nights, readings and panel debates. It also encompassed the “liberating our curriculum” campaign. All students were invited to participate which meant that everyone could learn about black history, culture and heritage. Events were well attended and other aims of disseminating information on positive black contributions to society,

Photos: Dan Falvey, Concrete Photography heightening confidence and awareness of black people to their cultural heritage and supporting the struggles of black people.

These aims were stated online by the union, and it was easy to see them carried out in a fun, varied and engaging way. Organisers of

“UEA struggles against a reputation of a haven for hemp-munching hippyliberal students and nobody else” the month’s events are to be congratulated for their energy and commitment. For secondyear student Naomi Rhodes, more progress is needed: “I think black history month has been great this year... but sometimes I worry we’re not actually getting through to people. I realy want people to understand that the black liberation is something that is still in process now, but a lot of people I’ve been speaking to seem to think it’s not that big a deal when it is... I just find that I’m aware that I’m a minority in most places at UEA especially in my course and maybe they should draw some attention to that”.

On a personal level, each student is offered continual support from the Dean of Students (DOS) and the Advice Centre, who certainly don’t discriminate. Feedback for these is overwhelmingly positive. According to one student: “UEA offers a huge amount of support for all students in terms of the Advice Centre and DOS, for example. I would go so far as to say that if any more help were offered, it would become intrusive”. On top of this, each student has a range of support to avail of personally: Norwich Nightline, academic advisors and each school’s student staff liaison committee (SSLC) are determined to offer help to all who ask for it. SSLCs in particular are pushing this year to make students’ voices heard at all board meetings and aim to include undergrads, postgrads and mature students.

Despite all this positive feedback, there

is still a sense on campus that some groups get ignored. It’s unfair to paint a picture of straight, white men having no representation, but at the same time many students believe that in promoting women’s issues, men’s get left behind. In promoting issues of diversity for the few, it’s thought that we may end up ignoring the cultures of the many.

Over the summer a society was proposed to promote men’s issues such as mental health and access to higher education, but nothing came to fruition and the plans were viewed widely as a combative reaction to UEA’s Feminist Society. Although this does not appear to have been the initial aim, fears that the society would have attracted those who disagree with feminist ideals were probably not unfounded. However, with Ucas chief executive, Mary Curnock Cook ,stating after a decline in the percentage of UK males availing of higher education that: “Young men are becoming a disadvantaged group in terms of going to university and this underperformance needs urgent focus across the education sector”. Perhaps males within the university environment are becoming a group whose needs should be addressed.

T

he bottom line for all students at UEA, however, is that the opportunity to have your voice heard is incredibly present on campus. Admittedly, we all have a way to go in terms of acceptance, equality and diversity, but the fact remains we are a progressive establishment.

Those who feel unrepresented or left out – most recently trans, ace and aro students – have come forward and been helped with campaigns to get their voices heard and improve the lives of minorities. Examples like ace and aro awareness week as well as the gender neutral toilets have illustrated how much support there is here at UEA for anyone, whether part of minority or majority groups, who wants to promote change. All it takes is someone brave enough to represent a community, like our reps and officers... It’s now up to us to make that confidence easier to come by.

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3rd November 2015

16

Comment

Playboy’s cover up: an unsatisfactory victory Niall Blunnie

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Illustration: Amy Anna Asher for Concrete

Matthew Biggs argues that in spite of the leaked memo, we should not be rushing the Chilcot inquiry

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n 18th October, the Mail on Sunday published a leaked memo, first sent in preparation for the infamous meeting held between George W. Bush and Tony Blair at the former president’s ranch in Crawford, Texas in April 2002. The document, sent to Bush by the then US Secretary of State, Colin Powell, consists of only nine pages, but nonetheless makes an interesting read, and is of special interest for those opponents of the Iraq war who would like to see Blair stand trial for war crimes.

As such, the fact that the correspondence has been leaked could be viewed as a victory of sorts, particularly when considered alongside the well-known attempts by the Blair administration to blockade the Chilcot inquiry, and the reluctance of US officials to divulge documents such as these. That said, I still remain sceptical that any victory has occured.

The Crawford meeting itself recently resurfaced in the political dialogue when Jeremy Corbyn raised the issue on Newsnight, posing the question, “What happened in Crawford... in 2002 in [Blair’s] private meetings with George Bush?” Now, at least we know exactly where the two leaders stood, politically speaking, in the days before the meeting. The memo, which has been said to contain information very damaging to Blair’s cause, shows that the Bush/Blair alliance was set for war with Saddam Hussein’s regime before democratic proceedings had concluded, and regardless of any UN backing.

Whilst not being one to look a gift horse in the mouth, I must confess that I initially, out of cynicism or naïvety, thought the memo could

have been leaked to alleviate the pressure being applied in the UK to see a conclusion to the Chilcot inquiry. If so, opponents of the Iraq war should not be so quick to celebrate.

“The intelligence was never questioned, although he used it extensively and almost exclusively” The file might help the Chilcot report to reach a satisfactory conclusion, but we should not stop our attempts to get to the bottom of what went on behind closed doors to gain support for military intervention in Middle Eastern affairs. Certainly, we should not be rushing the Chilcot inquiry; our aim should be to discover the truth of what happened, and if that involves waiting for more leaked and declassified US documents, then that’s what we need to do, in order that we know exactly who to pressure.

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he memo directly contradicts Blair’s publically held view that diplomatic solutions to the problem of Saddam Hussain were still possible. To quote the file: “Blair continues to stand by you and the US as we move forward on the war on terror and on Iraq.” In light of this, Blair’s recent pseudo-apology for having acted upon false intelligence about the nature of Saddam Hussain’s arsenal seems redundant. He said, “I apologise for the fact that the intelligence we received was wrong... I also apologise

for some of the mistakes in planning, and, certainly, our mistake in our understanding of what would happen when [we] removed the regime”. The intelligence was never questioned, although he used it extensively and almost exclusively when attempting to secure public backing.

The motive, therefore, appears to have been elsewhere -which is, of course, the primary accusation that Blair faces. The memo also stated: “[Blair] is convinced on two points: the threat is real; and the success against Saddam will yield more regional success”. Since we may well conclude with hindsight that the threat was not, in fact, real, and furthermore that it was supported by the UN, we must look more seriously at the second point, which, as it is articulated in the above excerpt, is rather vague, and comes across as profoundly sinister. We know that the measure of success against Saddam Hussain was to be measured in death tolls; it follows that the “regional success” must be measured similarly. If this was the end goal, then the Iraq war can be said to have accomplished much. Iraq itself collapsed, and the Isis, a group made of up landowners and labourers alike, some remnants of Hussain’s military and members of Al Qaeda, emerged. As Syria destabilised, this group grew to somewhere between 30,000 and 50,000 in its number of active soldiers, who have since killed tens of thousands of people.

US airstrikes, meanwhile, have reportedly killed 450 civilians, 100 of them children.

As Blair himself said, “Of course you can’t say those of us who removed Saddam in 2003 bear no responsibility for the situation in 2015”.

t’s been heralded by some as a victory for feminism: the announcement that Playboy will no longer be featuring pictures of fully nude women. Indeed, initially I was among them, celebrating the fact that we had managed to make the industry giant see the error of its ways. However, although this does represent a victory for women’s rights, it was not brought to fruition due to our protests, but instead was the result of yet another old-fashioned concept falling prey to the internet.

Cory Jones, Playboy’s chief content officer, has been quoted as saying: “You’re now one click away from every sex act imaginable for free. It’s just passé at this juncture”. Whilst some may dismiss this statement as a way to deny satisfaction to protestors, I truly believe this failure to stay current in our online generation is the real reason for Playboy’s downfall. Traditional forms of media are feeling the sting, as the internet gradually takes over as our primary source of entertainment and information (and yes, I fully understand the irony of discussing such matters in a print newspaper). I haven’t watched any television in months; instead, I spend my spare time browsing Tumblr, Reddit and YouTube, and like it or not, the one thing the internet has on lockdown is pornography. It’s almost inescapable. Be it hardcore or soft, fetish or artsy, it’s all out there. And, as Cory Jones rightfully said, it’s only a few clicks away, leading Playboy and other lads mags to question whether they can survive.

The answer is that it can only go up from here, and with such a colossal brand identity, the company has the potential to become something better, or even (dare I say it) something good.

A smart, if slightly idealistic, move would be to evolve into an outlet for body positivity: a publication that empowers both men and women, rather than preying on their insecurities, like so many other ‘fashion and lifestyle’ outlets do. Why not try to inject some class? Admittedly, maybe I’m being a little too optimistic, and instead, Playboy will end up publishing the same dull articles, only with slightly less degrading imagery.

Either way, this small victory is something feminists should be pleased about, even if we weren’t directly responsible. It also brings the online porn industry into the spotlight, which some would argue is far worse than Playboy or any of its glossy brethren; going by a sheepishly-watched documentary and a handful of articles about what goes on behind the scenes in the industry, it appears to be a less-than-pleasant place.

I’m not against pornography as a concept; the idea that sex is still treated as such a taboo baffles me, and I have no issue with teenagers discovering their sexuality through media rather than via awkward conversations with parents or the appalling sex education in schools.

The way people are treated, and coerced into making these films, is disheartening and upsetting -but it doesn’t have to be this way. The reality of the situation is, we may be saying farewell to Playboy’s sexist shoots, but there’s much more to be done before we can have the sexually enlightened, accepting society we desire.

3rd November 2015

17

Ollie Watts examines the debate surrounding Ireland’s laws on abortion and the eighth amendment

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mnesty International has begun a campaign seeking to repeal the eighth amendment of the Irish constitution that currently forbids abortion. The charity has reported that, every day, at least ten people travel across to England in order to undergo an abortion, with approximately 4,000 a year making the trip over to Britain or elsewhere in Europe. Now, Helen and Graham Linehan (the screenwriter behind hit comedy shows Father Ted and The IT Crowd) have joined the campaign, coming out in favour of the decriminalisation of abortion and speaking for the first time about their own experiences. In 2004, the couple discovered that the 11 week old foetus Helen was carrying was suffering from Acrania, a disorder in which the skull does not properly form and thus does not close over the brain. The doctors made it clear that the baby would be unable to survive for more than an hour after birth, and consequently Helen was advised to terminate the pregnancy, which she did, undergoing an abortion three days later.

However, upon moving to Ireland, several months later, the couple learned that had Helen had to have the termination in Ireland, she would have been sentenced to fourteen years imprisonment for procurement of an illegal abortion, and, under more recently established legislation, “destruction of an unborn human life”. It is this experience which has led the couple to call for the legalisation of abortion in Ireland. According to Graham, the eighth amendment currently makes the country “a dangerous place to live” for women, as even in cases of rape, incest and severe foetal impairment, abortion remains

illegal, forcing women to conclude their terms of pregnancy regardless of their individual situations.

There has been much controversy linked to this antiquated law. One example is the case of Savita Halappanavar in 2012, who was denied the opportunity to undergo an abortion multiple times, in spite of the fact that she was showing signs of septicaemia.

Doctors declined to consider termination for 48 hours, until the foetal heartbeat stopped and there was a spontaneous miscarriage. This

“Even in cases of rape, incest and severe foetal impairment, abortion remains illegal” delay contributed to a rapid deterioration in Halappanavar’s health, and she died just four days later. Clearly, this is not acceptable. In any circumstance where there is a health risk to the mother or child, abortion should be available without fear of jail time. For pregnant women to be forced to continue with the pregnancy represents both physical and psychological punishment. Imagine if Helen had been forced to complete her term, knowing that her unborn would almost certainly have died as soon as it was born.

The debate surrounding abortion persists with those in favour of woman’s right to control her body on the pro-choice side, and those in favour of the foetus’ right to life on the other. In 2014, the Protection of Life During Pregnancy Act was passed, allowing

for abortion where continuing with the pregnancy would endanger a woman’s life.

This was an encouraging first step towards modernising Ireland’s stance on abortion, and there is no doubt that in any scenario where there is a health risk to either the mother or child, women should be able to undergo the procedure without the looming consequence of a prison sentence. Health professionals must be allowed to carry out the procedure, rather than denying it on the grounds of its contradicting a religiously based constitution, as was the case in Halappanavar’s situation.

Nonetheless, if the eighth amendment is ever to be repealed, legislators will need to decide whether there should be any restraints regarding conditions which need to be met for an abortion to be allowed. This raises difficult questions, such as at what point a foetus should be given the right to life?

A foetus should of course be valued, as a potential person; following the birth of a baby, it becomes illegal to murder it, so how is it acceptable just a few months prior for it to be terminated? Equally, in the eyes of some pro-lifers, if a new law was to give absolute choice on the right to an abortion, would there be anything in place to prevent parents from undergoing abortions until they conceive a foetus with specific, desirable characteristics, or a child of a particular gender, as has been the case in China?

The abortion debate remains hotly contested, and whilst I agree with the need to repeal Ireland’s eighth amendment, the nations needs to be wary of complete freedom of choice.

Alice Spencer asks if the opening of Sevenoaks Grammar is a backwards step for equality in education

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ngland is set to see the opening of the first ‘new’ grammar school in over 50 years, following ministerial approval for Weald of Kent School to build an “annexe”, which will function as a selective institution, in Sevenoaks. In response to accusations of opening the “floodgates” for the creation of more new grammar schools, the Education Secretary, Nicky Morgan, has defended her position, arguing that the school will be an extension to the existing grammar (albeit a previously rejected extension) rather than a

“Grammar schools have a history of obtaining the highest grades” new school in its own right. She also insists that the new site “does not reflect a change in this government’s position on selective schools”. However, with Labour criticising the measure as a “hugely backwards step” for equality in education, the question presents itself: do grammar schools really belong in today’s education system?

For parents in Sevenoaks, it would seem that the answer is a decisive yes. This decision was, after all, preceded by years of campaigning by local parents, citing the benefits of selective schooling in driving up standards. Indeed, it is undeniable that grammar schools have a history of obtaining the highest grades. Even Shadow Education Minister Lucy Powell has acknowledged a parent’s natural desire to secure their children’s place in the best local school possible. In many ways, the grammar school system is less discriminatory than the modern

‘tape measure system’, the vicious cycle in which a child’s chances of educational success are determined by the size of their parents’ mortgage. Of course, selective institutions were originally introduced with the aim of benefitting underprivileged, high-achieving pupils. Yet, with the risk of getting carried away with nostalgia for the ‘golden age’ of education, does the inevitable competitiveness that comes with the grammar school system not undermine other local schools?

Interestingly, the Prime Minister has remained relatively distant from the grammar schools debate. Having vowed to tackle what he termed the “lowest social mobility in the developed world” at the Conservative Party Conference in October, the grammar school system, with its associations of an elitist past, doesn’t quite sit comfortably with Cameron’s ‘party for the working people’ mantra; in spite of claims that grammar schools enhance social mobility, the fact remains that students from low-income families are historically under-represented in grammar schools. Even the head of Ofsted, Sir Michael Wilshaw, who backs the rejuvenation of the “grammar school ethos”, claims selective schools are “stuffed full” of middle class children. Therefore, in many ways, this measure does appear to be a backwards step for the government. The Conservative’s pledge to open 500 more free schools by 2020 seems out of place next to a throwback to the 11 plus exam.

Of course, selective teaching remained present in education long after the abolition of new grammar schools in 1998, and the continued prominence of classes set by ability in state schools arguably has the same harmful effects on social mobility as grammar

Photo: Wikimedia, Tomlock01

schools, with some suggesting that the lower sets are often made up of children from lowincome families. Is this new grammar really so different from the precedent on which much of our education system is based today? In theory, the 11 plus should be an opportunity for academically able children from working class families to obtain a standard of education that may otherwise have been unavailable to

“Of the 164 grammar schools in England, less than 3% of entrants are entitled to free school meals” them in the current catchment system; such has been the basis of the argument for the pro-grammar parents of Sevenoaks.

Nevertheless, it is telling that of the 164 grammar schools in England, less than 3% of entrants are entitled to free school meals.

The premise of schooling based on ability has the potential to remove class inequality, by offering every child a chance to achieve, yet the reality is that grammar school places are very much the reserve of the privately tutored.

Whilst wealth is not a factor in the 11 plus itself, it does play a part in the resources and skills required to perform well in the exam, something which pro-grammar campaigners fail to take into account. It remains to be seen whether the opening of Sevenoaks Grammar will invite calls for more grammar schools to be set up. But in the meantime, it has opened a debate on inequality that remains very close to people’s hearts.

Comment

The rise of the progressive left Ryan Newington

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ustin Trudeau has, without much fanfare in the UK, been elected as the new Liberal Prime Minister of Canada. It is understandable that this relatively routine change of government in a moderately sized democracy will naturally take a back seat to the long-standing geopolitical drama of the civil war in Syria. Nevertheless, Trudeau’s election could potentially prove to be the most important political story of the decade, if it acts as a precursor to the rise of progressive politicians, such as Bernie Sanders and Jeremy Corbyn, in the English-speaking world.

The Liberal party in Canada have traditionally been a centre-left party, ideologically similar to our own Liberal Democrats. Unlike Lib Dems however, Trudeau’s party increased its seat count in the Canadian parliament by nearly 400% to win an overall majority. It is impossible to exaggerate the scale of this victory. Despite the party’s traditionally centrist ideology, Trudeau won on a message of “positive politics”: borrowing money and running a deficit in order to invest in public infrastructure, drug reform, and a promise to house more Syrian refugees.

Sound familiar?

Trudeau adopted this more progressive policy owing to the fact he was severely behind in the polls, and needed a new approach in order to change course. The positive politics message, combined with the Canadian economy falling into recession in September, saw Trudeau’s Liberals jump ten points in the polls in half a month, and subsequently reach this stunning victory. Trudeau managed to position his party in a niche that dismissed the rhetoric of public spending cuts being necessary to achieve deficit reduction as a fallacy, and through the onset of recession, he was able to politically capitalise on the opportunity presented to him.

In spite of criticism from some on the left that Trudeau’s progressive positive politics represents a dressed-up continuation of neoliberalism from a traditionally neo-liberal party, it is undeniable that the socio-economic vision presented in their manifesto would not look out of place in Jeremy Corbyn’s Labour party. Trudeau’s victory could therefore be seen as setting a precedent for victory for fellow progressive such as Corbyn or Bernie Sanders. Such a triumph, in a country which shares such a historical affinity with Great Britain and the USA, demonstrates that there is an appetite for a change to the deficitcutting discourse espoused by the Western political establishment. A catalyst like the Canadian recession could be enough to unleash this desire for change, which could crush the Conservative deficit rhetoric in the UK, and consequently provide Corbyn with the ability to win in 2020.

Nonetheless, caution should be exercised. Both Corbyn and Sanders face much more formidable domestic pressure in terms of media bias. The public image of Sanders as an elderly, out-dated socialist in a presidential system provides him with a significant handicap when compared to the young and charismatic Trudeau, elected in a parliamentary system, and it is equally possible that Corbyn will suffer from this problem in 2020. Part of the reason that Trudeau has been so successful is his ability to use his image to create the perception of a new approach. Corbyn and Sanders’ politics are clearly old-style socialism, and their media image reflects this. For the progressive left to triumph against the divisive dogma advocated by the right, it may be that, like in Canada, it requires a new, younger and fresher face.

3rd November 2015

18

Science&Environment

UEA’s fossil fuel investments: could your tuition fees be funding climate change?

Lawrence Lilley Sci&Env writer UEA is renowned as a pioneering institution for environmental and social responsibility.

However, less well-known is that UEA has over £130,000 invested in the fossil fuel companies Shell, BG Group, BHP Billiton and Rio Tinto. Confronting this paradox, UEA Healthy Planet hosted a debate on 22nd October on the question: should UEA cut its ties with the fossil fuel industry?

NHS Sustainable Development Unit Director, Dr David Pencheon, offered a healthfocused perspective. “Unless universities and health systems start divesting and showing visible signs saying, ‘This is ethically, healthwise and economically undesirable’, we’re going to perpetuate it. As human beings, we’re good at perpetuating yesterday’s habits today, and we need big symbolic signs to say it’s not normal anymore. Somebody needs to stand up and universities are a great way of doing it”.

The union’s Campaigns and Democracy Officer, Chris Jarvis, said, “Over the last two years we’ve seen UEA drag its feet while divestment nationally and internationally has been snowballing”. He argued that divestment has been historically significant for students in the anti-apartheid movement, and that “previous campaigns against the arms trade and the worst practices of the tobacco industry have divorced those industries from their moral license to operate”.

Jarvis went on to claim that divestment represents a deeper, symbolic shift. “To continue its reputation as a progressive institution on these issues, continued investments are, fundamentally, a hypocrisy.

We know about the fossil fuel industry and the things it’s responsible for: exacerbating the worst aspects of climate change, lobbying governments to slow down regulations on the environment and to stop effective action being taken on climate change”.

UEA Environmental Sciences graduate and former Fossil Free campaigner Emma Silk agreed. “Why, with its environmental credentials, is UEA funding one of the industries doing the most to cause climate change; funding the industry who want to burn more carbon than save it, continuing to hunt for more reserves in more extreme ways? These companies are not currently doing enough to ensure we meet a lowcarbon energy future quick enough. Doing so would go against their bottom line. They

Britain strikes nuclear energy deal with China Louise Fitzgerald Sci&Env writer EDF Energy and China General Nuclear Power Corporation have reached an agreement to build a new nuclear reactor at Hinkley Point, Somerset. The plant at is expected to be

Photo: Flickr: mira66 are ignoring the science and actively using their substantial funds and power in order to decrease awareness that climate change is happening at all”, she said, referring to links with think tanks promoting climate change misinformation.

UEA justifies inaction, claiming its investments comply with their policy that

long-term investments are made into “sustainable and ethically appropriate funds”. But Silk pointed out that “many fossil fuel companies have an absolutely terrible record when it comes to human rights and environmental abuses”.

Financial activist Brett Scott said: “Financial arguments are often contrasted to moral arguments, as if these were two separate realms of society. If you want to go into the traditional financial mentality and argue on those terms, it’s all about risk and return.”

For example, Carbon Tracker advances the ‘Carbon Bubble’ argument: that companies’ fossil fuel reserves will become “stranded assets” as international agreements force

them to leave reserves underground. Scott contested, “That argument doesn’t actually challenge the fundamental ideology of the financial sector, that somehow, if returns are high, it overrides the fact you’re undermining ecological stability and humankind itself. You should challenge that assumption. Those are two separate routes you can go down, and you’ve got to balance those two types of debates”.

He explained, “Consumer campaigns are difficult. Everyone’s complicit. But who has the most power to change something right now? The industry itself. Historically, protest is the only thing that actually creates change.

Climate change is on the agenda because of groups like Greenpeace. The behind-thescenes people who do careful negotiation only come afterwards when they’re forced to.

The vanguard groups always put the things onto the agenda. They, by definition, have to be utopian and somewhat crude. If you don’t, then you have stasis”.

UEA economics lecturer Dr Fabio Arico offered the least pro-divestment view. “Our role as a charity is looking after improving our learning, teaching, and research. That’s our main objective. Can we really afford the cost of divestment if the impact is not that high? Wouldn’t we rather do something else? I feel that the role of UEA in terms of

engaging with environmentally friendly policy has been pretty prominent, so we’re doing a good job.”

Professor Andrew Watkinson, UEA Environmental Sciences lecturer and former director of the Tyndall Centre, reiterated UEA’s role in championing climate research while climate change remains marginalised in UK politics. “What’s quite clear is that the current government has weakened its resolve. It’s removed subsidies from renewable energy generation, whereas it’s still promoting subsidies for fossil fuels”.

Jarvis concluded: “For the executive team who aren’t here and have decided to continue having investments in the fossil fuel industry, I think their actions are an absolute disgrace.

To invest is to be complicit in climate change, but also, to refuse to engage in the groundswell of student opposition to these investments is ultimately ignoring the fact they are key stakeholders and the primary funders of this university. Fundamentally, that money being invested in the fossil fuel industry is your money you pay into the university in your tuition fees. Together, we can make sure this issue won’t go away, and by joining collectively, we can make sure the movement for divestment here at UEA, nationally and internationally is too big for institutions to ignore”.

generating electricity by 2025 and will power six million homes.

EDF Energy, which is mainly owned by the French government, said that the final cost of the project would be £18bn, with CGN paying £6bn for one third of it. EDF said that they are considering selling a further 15% stake in the project but will remain majority stakeholders.

The decision coincides with the state visit of the Chinese President, Xi Jingping, to the UK. During his four-day visit, more than £30 were announced.

The agreement also set up a wider development plan for reactors in Sizewell, Suffolk and Bradwell, Essex. The Bradwell project is also expected to include a Chinesedesigned reactor.

However, the decision has been criticised.

The government have guaranteed a price of £92.50 per megawatt hour of electricity – more than twice the current cost. Although this will represent a healthy profit for China it is expected that this increased cost will cause household bills to rise.

Opponents have also raised security concerns about giving China a central role in Britain’s nuclear future. The biggest worry is that the Chinese, who will be developing the software, could build off switches into the plant’s IT sysmtens, enabling them to stop production at any time.

Whilst feared by many, nuclear power has a number of environmental benefits. Nuclear power does not release any greenhouse gases; and a plant lifespan of up to 60 years make nuclear power a low-cost energy supply

option.

It is still unclear where the nuclear waste created by the plant will be stored. The government had planned to store the waste underground in Cumbria but residents strongly objected these proposals.

At a time where the UK government is slashing renewable subsidises, the decision to build an expensive nuclear power plant seems odd. Previous planning applications for a wind farm on the Hinkley Point site were rejected, despite the fact that wind is the most efficient source of renewable energy.

Ecotricity, a green energy provider say that almost all of the UK electricity supply could be generated by renewables by 2030.

This begs the question: why are we getting China involved at all?

£130000

The amount of money that UEA has invested in fossil fuel companies

3rd November 2015

19

Science&Environment

Four UK bird species facing extinction

What’s new in science

Jacob Beebe Sci&Env editor Many would associate the word extinction with thoughts of exotic animals from distant countries: pandas, rhinos, tigers, for example.

And you wouldn’t be wrong. It is common, after all, that the cute and cuddly tend to hog the spotlight in media coverage. However, it has recently come to light that four bird species native to the UK face extinction.

Atlantic puffins, Slavonian grebes, pochards and European turtle doves have all been categorised as at risk, being added to the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of threatened species for birds.

The reasons for their decline are varied.

Ecologists have stated that puffins are susceptible to pollution and a declining food source. It has been reported that turtle dove numbers across Europe have decreased by 30% in the past 16 years. The reason for the turtle dove and Solavonian grebe declines have not yet been fully identified, but both have been attributed to an unexplained reduction in the number of breeding pairs. It is thought that the reduction in pochard numbers is due to hunting and habitat destruction.

It is a surprise to hear that puffins are in decline, as they are relatively abundant –

The lion population in Africa could decline by a half within 20 years.

A molecule found in bananas has been found to fight HIV and hepatitis C.

A case of anthrax has been confirmed in a cow on a farm in Wiltshire.

Biologists have discovery that electric eels curl up to double shock strength.

Russian researchers discovered frozen lion cubs from the Ice Age in Siberia.

The UN has said that current climate change mitigation plans will be insufficient to prevent dangerous warming.

Scientists have been stunned by the discovery of oxygen on the Rosetta comet.

Photo: Wikipedia, Andreas Trepte their numbers still in the millions. However, the decline in the abundance of their prey – species such as sand eels – has put them at risk: fewer and fewer young birds are surviving to reproduce.

Martin Harper, conservation director with the RSPB said: “The erosion of the UK’s wildlife is staggering and this is reinforced when you talk about puffins and turtle doves now facing the same level of extinction threat as African elephants and lions, and being more endangered than the humpback whale”.

It is clear that our attitudes towards native birds must change. We need to commit to fast, decisive action to reduce our impact on other species. A significant effort must be made to save the Atlantic puffin, Slavonian grebe, pochard and European turtle dove, if only for the sake of the partridge in the pear tree.

A piece of space junk set to enter Earth’s atmosphere on Friday 13th November.

It is heading for the Indian Ocean, 62 miles off the coast of Sri Lanka.

Pig-snouted turtle from dinosaur era have been discovered in Utah.

There has been a new breakthrough in lithium-oxygen battery technology for transport.

Using Minecraft, researchers at the University of Hull aim to teach biochemistry to children Russia has tested the first all-female space crew for potential a moon mission.

China is to start work on a new supercollider by 2020.

The herpes virus has been used to fight cancer cells.

Scott Kelly, a Nasa astronaut, is set to break the record for the longest space flight.

Cod stocks will never recover from over-fishing because of to warming oceans.

Photos Top: Paul Mannix, Science Box Bottom: Wikimedia, European Space Agency

3rd November 2015

20

Travel

From Japan to Norfolk: the life of an international student

A

fter more than 20 hours of travelling from Japan, I finally arrived in England.

Once I entered Norwich International Airport, I got excited by literally everything I saw: coins, notes, a roundabout, houses, and the beautiful cathedrals in this city.

The first impressions that I had were of the languages. Yes, there is no need to say so, but everybody speaks English. It may sound stupid, but I cannot help thinking in this way, since in my home country, Japan, almost everyone speaks Japanese and we hardly ever see non-Japanese people in the streets. I was overwhelmed as I had never before felt that I am a minority.

Starting my new life here in Norwich was twice as hard as starting at my home university.

Registering at UEA, we international students have to set up our own lives at the same time.

I used to live with my family and therefore I did not have to do any housework. However, separated from my family, I had to start living on my own. Even if was living by myself in my home country it would not have been easy, therefore, I was anxious about my new life in Norwich.

One of the biggest problems was food. I felt the need to cook every meal because food

Akane Matsumoto shares her experiences of leaving her native Japan and living as an international student in Norwich Above left: Flickr, Moyam Brenn.

Above right: Flickr, Tim Caynes. Right: Flickr, Andrew M Butler

prices in the UK are much more expensive than in Japan. Fortunately, fresh groceries like vegetables are cheap here, which motivates me to keep eating them instead of buying ready meals. But it’s not all about saving money; adapting to a new culture also means trying new food. So far, I have tried some British meals such as traditional English breakfast and mash potatoes with gravy.

Surprisingly, supermarkets here have a great range of international foods which makes it easy to find shops that sell foreign foods. It helped me a lot when I was suddenly missing Japanese cuisine.

Apart from my everyday life, one of the reasons I decided to study abroad was to improve my English skills.

For learners of any foreign language, studying abroad is the best way to improve. It may not be strictly necessary – indeed, we can do it to some extent at home, however, we never have as strong an impulse to communicate with people using our adopted language when we are in familiar surroundings. And living abroad provides excellent opportunities to try out some phrases you have just learned.

Moreover, there is no doubt that studying abroad gives you a great chance to learn about a different culture. In my first few days, I was confused when buses were not punctual, which is rare in Japan. Also, as I am living with two Erasmus students, I was sometimes surprised at their different culture and daily routine. For example, my Spanish flatmate sometimes begins her dinner as late as 22:00.

I embrace the difference and I am loving the chance to spend time with them. Through living abroad, our own ideas are gradually changed and we become able to think more flexibly.

As I mentioned previously, settling in was not so easy for me. But I was lucky enough to have my lovely flatmates who helped me get over obstacles such as opening a UK bank account. Besides, since we have similar problems such as homesickness, we can share experiences and console each other.

It has now been six weeks since I started living here and I have fewer difficulties than I did in my first few days. I have come to feel that it is time to proceed to the next step: challenge. Within the limited period of time that I have here, I am very eager to make the most of it in order to strengthen myself.

3rd November 2015

21

Travel

Travelling with allergies Laura Schmidt

T

ravelling is not easy to begin with: train timetables, potential language barriers, attempting to fit everything in one bag and keep it under a ten kilogram limit (I’m looking at you, RyanAir). But what some people don’t seem to understand is one thing that some of us have to really worry about on vacations: eating.

I’ve had a casein (dairy) allergy since I was 15. And although it’s now easier to avoid dairy, the repercussions of accidentally eating something I shouldn’t have become worse.

When I say I want soy milk in my drink or need to know if butter is used on the grill, it’s for my own safety, not because I’m on some sort of “cool diet”. Personally, I did not want to spend part of my vacation puking into a toilet in my hotel in Vienna. But I did.

To cut a long story short, dietary restrictions are difficult, especially communicating them to both the people serving you and the people you’re travelling with. This goes for whether you’re allergic, intolerant, or even simply vegan or vegetarian. (For those of you unaware, people who go without meat for several years can sometimes get sick when they eat meat again). Thankfully, there are some things you can do to make the journeys a little easier. And so you can focus on more important things, like passports, luggage, trains and having fun.

Servers

These are the people you need to constantly be communicating with on your trips. If you are heading to a country where language may be an issue, be sure to at least learn the words for the products you cannot eat. Google Translate is a lifesaver. If you don’t have phone data available at the location you’re travelling to, either make cards with phrases written out or take screenshots on your phone of the translated text for “Does this product/food contain ______? I am allergic. Thank you”, or the like. Most people will be more than accommodating. And they may even have a different suggestion for you to try instead.

Knowing the word for the product(s) you need to avoid is also helpful when grocery shopping in your new destination. And trust me, even if you are there for just a few days, you’ll probably stop by at least one place to pick up a take-away sandwich or a bag of crisps.

The people you are travelling with

This may seem obvious, but it is also the hardest – you need to openly and effectively communicate your dietary restrictions to the people you are travelling with. If they know you are allergic to peanuts, they will likely not suggest going to a Thai restaurant. If you are in a large party and they end up somewhere you can’t eat, you can look for other places in the same area and meet up with your party later. Otherwise, stick with your party, eat what you can (if anything), and bring out the snacks you packed earlier.

Realise that while travelling, you may have to make compromises. You may have to eat smaller meals than usual at some restaurants and eat larger portions when you do have food available.

Essentials

Always pack snacks. Lots and lots of snacks. Stock up before you head to the airport or train station, and put a few in your bag every day. They may not be meals, but they are something to eat and keep your energy up. Travelling while hungry is never a good idea.

Try to find good compromises in restaurants; I always do a cheese-less pizza if my friends want to go to an Italian, for example.

Look up bakeries or shops that might sell things you wouldn’t normally be able to have. This is usually easier in larger cities. For example, look up gluten-free bakeries or vegan patisseries.

Mark them on your map before you embark on your travels – perhaps you will pass one in your travels or you could even make it a special destination.

C

hances are, you will still run into trouble on your travels. I cannot count the number of times my family has wandered aimlessly in the streets looking for a restaurant everyone can eat at (me with my dairy allergy, and my brother with his gluten allergy). The world is getting much better at recognising and understanding dietary restrictions.

It’s not perfect, but hey, travelling is worth it. Even if you may be surviving off of pre-made sandwiches and nutrition bars until you find that perfect restaurant.

Photos, clockwise from top right: Flickr, Aldas Kirvaitis; Flickr, marcovdz; Flickr, Adam Wyles; Flickr, StateofIsrael; Flickr, Young Sok Yun; Flickr, William Cho; Flickr, decar66

3rd November 2015

22

Sport

Football: UEA Men’s 2nd XI lose in dying moments Tom Gordon Sports editor The first home Bucs game of the year for UEA men’s second XI football team was not one any player will look back on with relish.

The day got off to an inauspicious start, as seemingly interminable delays pushed kick off back by 40 minutes. The cause of the delay was the fact there was no referee in evidence, with a qualified spectator having to return home to pick up his kit and stolidly officiate for the full 90. Not only that, but Anglia-Ruskin were angered that their kit (white with yellow accents) was ostensibly similar to UEA’s full yellow kit. Both of these mishaps seemed to be as the result of a mix up: the union had assured the team on Monday that the original referee would be available to officiate the derby game.

Not only that, but it seems that it had told Ruskin that UEA would be playing in blue.

This comedy of errors – devoid entirely of any humour – led to a distinctly tense atmosphere before the game had even began.

Ruskin players were agitating to abandon the game, and to appeal the result if it were to continue. Sadly any appeal on the part of Ruskin was proved to be irrelevant by the end of the game. Ruskin’s captain, Nicholas Farthing, was adamant that UEA don bibs in order to distinguish themselves from their opposition. Eventually the new referee returned to Colney Lane, and UEA donned bibs of various colours. As such it was impossible to identify the numbers and names of the UEA players.

Finally the game kicked off to a predictably scrappy start, after the protracted delays led to an inevitable lack of focus. It was a fairly even affair, but UEA were being dispossessed far too easily, in what became a hallmark of the game. The most egregious example of this came when their fullback was disposed in the box, being saved only by a strong tackle from goalkeeper Jack Morton. It was a fairly nondescript half, and although UEA were getting stronger in the tackle, they ended the first 45 being pushed back into their own half.

The second half was a different story entirely. Right from the kick off, with an excellent driving run down the left side and a couple of nifty stepovers, UEA’s winger put a

Photo: Cenning Zheng precise pass into the box, which was obligingly tapped into the back of the net. However, Ruskin soon answered with a lovely ball and a tap in of their own, bringing the score to 1-1. After particularly woeful finishing, with chance after chance being skied by their forwards, Ruskin had finally found the net.

A late and particularly hefty challenge gave UEA a free kick on the edge of the box, in a particularly juicy area. It was hit straight over the wall, and Chris Coyston, Ruskin’s keeper, did not exactly cover himself in glory. Despite his flailing attempts to claw it back over the line, his terrible fumble meant UEA now led 2-1. As the half went on, almost everyone on the pitch looked frustrated. Despite the three goals, neither team had found their rhythm.

A UEA player on the sidelines shouted

confidently “They don’t want it!” A few minutes later, however, Ruskin proved them wrong, when a looping free kick from the half way line was headed into the bottom left corner.

Several lovely balls were put into the box by UEA, but there was a distinct lack of anyone to dispatch them, until finally a forward availed themselves of one of these passes. However Ruskin’s number one made a great diving save. Judging by his vociferous reaction, he felt he had at least in part made up for his earlier mistake.

In the last few minutes UEA were putting in more and more convincing attacks, and the feeling on the by-line was that a late goal was there to be nicked. However a driving Ruskin run down the porous left-side of UEA’s

defence led to a great ball being floated in to the box. Morton couldn’t get to the ball before Ruskin’s forward, and the ball trickled sadly into the net, making it 3-2 to Ruskin. Moments later, the whistle blew for full time. Just as it seemed UEA were about to regain the lead, the worst had happened.

In the post-game team talk, UEA’s manager, Lee Hamilton, said that “we were robbed there”, but added the team’s lack of concentration was symptomatic of “the story of the season”. It was a scrappy and disorganised game from beginning to end for both teams, but UEA certainly seemed on the ascendency throughout the second half, and UEA’s downcast players “know they were better”. Hopefully they will demonstrate this in their next match.

Scotland and Wales fall to devastating defeats James Chesson Sports editor Scotland and Wales both crashed out of the Rugby World cup quarter-finals despite valiant efforts to create upsets. Scotland lost 35-34 to Australia, in a game decided by a controversial last-minute penalty decision that swung the match in the Wallabies’ favour. Video replays showed that the deliberate offside decision was incorrect as the ball had actually come off an Australian player. Referee Craig Joubert exacerbated the situation at the final whistle, as he immediately sprinting away from the pitch and down the tunnel in the wake of tens of thousands of angry home fans, without even shaking the hands of the two captains.

That incident marred a thrilling game, in which Scotland nearly overturned one of the tournament favourites, defying the prematch predictions that pointed towards an Australian walkover. Scotland centre Mark Bennett put his side 34-32 up with just seven minutes remaining on the clock, but the hard work was undone in a moment of abysmal

Photo: Flikr, shafraz.nasser

refereeing, with Australian fly-half Bernard Foley dispatching a penalty with little trouble.

The television match official (TMO) is usually called upon to determine controversial

incidents, but this particular case was outside that remit, raising serious questions about the limitations of the TMO. Wales suffered an almost equally

depressing 23-19 defeat at the hands of South Africa, who scored a try five minutes from the end. Much like Scotland, Wales were not expected to stand much of a chance against another of the favourites to win the World Cup, but a spirited display saw them come very close. Dan Biggar was the star man in the Welsh ranks, scoring 14 points, and setting up their try, including the penalty that looked like it would send them through to the semifinals. Wales even led at half-time, taking a 13-12 lead into the break. However, the late try from Fourie du Preez deflated a buoyant Twickenham as Warren Gatland’s men failed to hold off the South African pressure.

Elsewhere, Ireland fell to a disappointing 43-20 hammering by Argentina. An experienced Irish side began the game awfully, conceding 17 points without reply in the opening quarter of an hour. From then on they were chasing the game and although a heroic comeback briefly looked to be possible at 2023, but never came to fruition. Nicolas Sanchez kicked 23 of his team’s points as Argentina completed an entirely southern-hemisphere line up in the semi-finals.

3rd November 2015

23

Sport

Home nations’ newfound European success Nick Murphy Sport writer When Uefa president, Michel Platini, announced two years ago that the 2016 European Championship would be extended to accommodate 24 national teams, the footballing public poured its usual cup of hot scorn on Europe’s governing body.

Part of the charm of the European Championship has always been its elite structure. Only the best were allowed to qualify, which meant only the highest standard of matches at the tournament itself.

But what followed has arguably reinvigorated international football. Sure, England made its usual procession through qualifying, but elsewhere the smaller nations had a new incentive. Wales and Northern Ireland both qualified for their first major tournament since 1958 and 1982 respectively, while Iceland – population 325,000 – and Albania, will be present at a summer football tournament for the first time in their histories.

Photo: Flickr.com, Jon Candy The new format encouraged the smaller nations to play on the front foot rather than sitting back and defending. Teams took on a more positive mentality and reaped the

rewards as a result. Northern Ireland, a nation without an away win in four years prior to the Euro 2016 qualifying campaign, picked up three in four games under Michael O’Neill

in Group F. They are a nation without any standout or marquee players, but thanks to the qualifying structure and an inspirational manager, they are a nation rejuvenated.

Joining them in the finals is Wales, a nation that not only lost its way but also its manager in such tragic circumstances in 2011. For Chris Coleman, his players and the supporters to get over that setback and continue the wonderful legacy laid down by the late Gary Speed is no mean feat. The Welsh have risen above England in the World Rankings and qualified for their first major tournament in over 50 years. While individual brilliance has obviously played its part, the collective effort and spirit amongst the team was also vital.

Wales, England and Northern Ireland will all be present at the Euros next year in France, with the Republic of Ireland looking all set to join if they can beat Bosnia in the play-offs.

With Scotland as the only confirmed absentees after Gordon Strachan’s side failed to qualify, it’s looking all set to be a great British party across the channel in France next year.

Photo: wikipedia.org, Morie

Motorsport round-up Esther Veas Sport writer The 25th October was not a day for the fainthearted in the world of motorsport. Lewis Hamilton clinched his third Formula One title in Austin, Texas after an abnormally wet weekend. Having been delayed for more than two hours, Saturday’s qualifying was moved to Sunday morning instead. The rain still persisted and the final leg of qualifying was cancelled, so the second leg results determined the afternoon’s starting grid. With Mercedes’s Nico Rosberg on pole, it seemed the championship race would continue into the next event.

However, the Grand Prix turned out to be wilder than expected. Only 12 out of 20 drivers saw the chequered flag, with shunts from Räikkönen, Bottas, Sauber and Red Bull among others. Two full and two virtual safety car periods allowed teams to switch strategies and change tyres, which proved very beneficial to Mercedes’s Lewis Hamilton, placing him second with fresh tyres, just behind Rosberg towards the end of the race.

It was nevertheless an unforced error from Rosberg – who went wide eight laps before the finish – that granted Hamilton the title, which he described as the “greatest moment” of his life over the team radio. He later said that “I feel like I have the baton now for myself and Ayrton and I will carry it as far as I can and see where I can build it”.Ferrari’s

Sebastian Vettel had to settle for third, giving up his already slim title chances, after starting from 13th on the grid due to a penalty derived from an engine change.

As for Moto GP, Yamaha’s Valentino Rossi came under major public scrutiny after allegedly kicking Marc Márquez off of his motorbike while the two were in the midst of a heated battle in the Malaysian Grand Prix.

The seasoned Italian’s championship chances have diminished greatly, despite holding a seven-point lead over team-mate Jorge

3

Lewis Hamilton has won three world titles, the same number as Ayrton Senna

Lorenzo, as he will have to start last in the final race of the season in Valencia. Additionally, his public image and sportsmanship have been undoubtedly tarnished. Has “the Doctor” lost his touch?

Finally, Volkswagen’s Andreas Mikkelsen won his first World Championship rally in Catalonia. The Norwegian’s maiden victory almost caught him by surprise, as his team mate, three-time world champion Sébastien Ogier, crashed quite spectacularly in the very last stage after leading most of the event; the Frenchman has, however, already secured his world title after yet another dominant season.

Their teammate, Finland’s Jari-Matti Latvala, finished second, just 3.1 seconds off the lead.

Hyundai’s Dani Sordo finished in third – the Spaniard’s best result of the season.

Photo: Flickr, Pittaya Sroilong

Norwich U21s bested by superior Tottenham James Szumowski Sport writer After drawing level twice in the game, Norwich were finally defeated 3-2 by a superior-looking Tottenham side managed by cult hero Ugo Ehiogu, who will not have been disappointed by his team’s performance. The defeat for the young Canaries was their third from five games so far this campaign – their form in cup competitions not being carried over in to the league – while Tottenham have lost just two out of six games played.

Played in front of BT Sport’s television cameras, the two young teams could have been forgiven for playing with a hint of nerves about them, but this was quickly dispelled when, in the seventh minute, Tottenham opened the scoring.

Within 11 minutes though, City had equalised. Cameron Norman rose well at the back post to meet Cantwell’s in-swinging corner and brought the two sides level.

Following the initial 20-minute flurry of action, both teams settled into the game and few

chances were created for the remainder of the half. A highlight of the closing minutes came in the form of a sumptuous first time effort from Lesniak, watched helplessly by a lucky Killip as it flew over, agonisingly close to his crossbar.

The second half opened with similar velocity. With niggly, scrappy football being played by both sides, the 6,500-strong crowd began to become restless. That is until Ray Grant’s free kick was narrowly headed over

by Cameron Norman, signalling the start of a frantic closing 20 minutes. Cantwell, dallying in his own half of the pitch, was robbed of possession by Spurs’ captain Lesniak, who played a simple sideways pass to Ryan Loft, sending him clean through on goal. He duly side-footed a trickling shot past Killip, and Spurs had reclaimed their first half advantage.

A mistake for the young City player, but the only one made in a stellar creative midfield performance.

Spurs continued to press, resulting in Killip saving a shot from Anthony Georgiou, and Louis Ramsay saved his teams blushes with a goal line clearance. With 13 minutes left on the clock, Cantwell and Middleton linked up well resulting in a low, driven cross into the sixyard box, gleefully converted by Eaton-Collins to take the scores back even.

Just four minutes later, Spurs had again taken back their lead, a good passing move resulting in a tap-in at the back stick. Both teams finished the game with a flurry of end to end attacking play, but both keepers provided good stops to keep the scores as they were.

Sport 3rd November 2015 Issue 316

Men’s football: 2nd XII slip up >P22

Hamilton clinches F1 title in Texas >P23

Archery’s Beiter tournament a hit, not a miss Tom Gordon & James Chesson Sport editors UEA was a part of archery history on 18th October as it hosted the Beiter Hit-Miss tournament, the first of its kind to be held.

The usual concept of archery involves the famous white, black, blue, red and yellow colour scheme on a target with increasing point values the closer an arrow lands to the centre. This tournament, however, operated over a much shorter distance (across the width of the main hall in the Sportspark) with the Danage Domino target design – named as such due to consisting of two sets of three yellow circles on a black background, resembling a domino. From our vantage point in the spectator area it proved a challenge even to see the smaller circles, yet the talent on show managed to hit them consistently, in a remarkable demonstration of skill and precision.

For the knockout rounds, where things became exciting, new targets were introduced, which made a satisfying popping noise when pierced. They did, unfortunately, introduce the hazard of arrows bouncing back off the targets, but they certainly added an extra element of entertainment value to a tournament that could be criticised only for its repetitiveness.

What immediately becomes clear after just a couple of minutes in a hall full of archers is that this is a sport for the eagle-eyed, whether you be a spectator or a competitor. It really is a blink-or-you’ll-miss-it discipline, whether you’re looking at the bow or the target. Trying to follow an arrow would give you seriouswhiplash.

It’d be easy to have the perception of archery as a quaint sport, played by those whose interests are geared more towards Sylvan elves than sports. That couldn’t be further from the truth. This is not a discipline to be taken lightly. The hall was positively suffused with expensive-looking, top-range carbon fibre bows, and sponsorships aplenty.

Competitors preparing to take a shot during UEA’s Beiter Hit-Miss archery tournament Photo: beiterhitmiss.co.uk It is honestly frightening to see the speed at which these arrows fly from the bowstring, and you would certainly not want to get on the wrong side of someone who can hit a 20mm diameter target from 30 paces.

For such a hotly contested event, it was one of the most welcoming atmospheres we’ve had the pleasure to witness. Most of the participants were on first-name terms with their direct competitors, and would even exchange a few words with their opposite number whilst their partners loosed their shafts. Even when a member didn’t get the highest of scores for their pair, their other half would almost always be ready and waiting with a hi-five and a smile. It is a rare pleasure to be in a hall full of people who love what they are doing, are supremely knowledgeable of their discipline, and have in spades the skill to back up that knowledge.

In a tournament constituted by a frankly bewildering array of winners/losers/anything in between, it was hard not to latch onto one

team and follow them throughout. Stumbling upon what were certainly two of the more talented and motivated people we’ve met was the biggest pleasure of the day. The affable duo were Alyssia Tromans-Ansell from Staffordshire on the recurve bow and David Taylor on the compound from Lichfield. The pair, known by their team name Funtastic Two, were one round from reaching the quarter-finals, putting up a valiant final display. They had to contend with getting to that stage via a coin toss, the tournament’s recourse after a repeat sudden death, which David admitted was “a bit strange”.

Tromans-Ansell’s pathway to archery was a unique one to say the least. After having had an anaphylactic reaction during a gymnastics session, she had to find a new sport: one that wouldn’t “wreck all [her] joints”. Taylor’s avenue to the sport was through an archery event at primary school, and he had “wanted to do it” ever since. Concrete certainly wasn’t able to tell that David had only made the

switch from recurve to compound bow a mere three years ago.

Both of the components of Funtastic Two had unsurprisingly impressive plans for the future. Taylor and Tromans-Ansell both intend to try out for Team GB, something that Tromans-Ansell had tried last year. The pair also had their sights set on the nationals this year too, and Tromans-Ansell, not wishing to limit herself, wants to participate in “the indoor and the outdoor.” She “might do the masters again – I want to win that if I do”, and win the youth festival a second time. And of course, she wants to “come back here next year and win!”

In the end the tournament was won by team Napoleon Dynawhite – presumably an allusion to the melanin levels of both members – who rarely put a shaft out of place.

All in all, the first Beiter Hit-Miss Tournament was a rousing success – a “hit” if you will – and bows and arrows are an excellent way to spend the day.

zone and shooting, though the move was thwarted by a rapid pad save from Birkentals.

They couldn’t be held off forever though, with an attempt from Birmingham’s Oliver Swift finding a way through, bringing the score to 2-2. Avalanche didn’t take that lying down, with goals from Dom Rodwell and Phil Carter

pushing the Avs up to 4-2.

Birmingham tried to fight back, taking shots, though none found home. A highlight of the period was Austin’s skilful breakaway goal, threading through the Birmingham team as if they weren’t there, to score his second goal of the night, making it 5 - 2. He made ice hockey look easy.

UEA’s night only got better going into the third, shooting the puck straight into Birmingham’s zone. Though tired after 40 minutes of play, they fought on, creating traffic around the net to trying to distract the goaltender enough to chip in a goal. They scored a further two goals in the period, from Joe Fitzsimmons, and another from Carter.

Neither team backed down, taking shots on goal for the remainder of the period, until one last hit from Birmingham found its way through in the last five minutes. When the final whistle was blown, the score was 7-3.

UEA’s man of the match was Sam Birkentals after some amazing saves, and Birmingham’s was a deserving Ellis Hammond.

It was an excellent first game for UEA Avalanche, with several rookies playing their first game ever- what a result for them to have. This victory bodes well for the rest of the season, with Avalanche looking forward to their next game against the Nottingham Mavericks on 27th November.

Ice Hockey: UEA Avalanche beat Birmingham Lions 7-3 Leah Brown Sport writer UEA Avalanche beat the Birmingham Lions 7-ww3 in their first challenge game of the new season, which, despite the score, was a closely matched fixture.

The Avs started strong, winning the first faceoff of the first period, pushing the puck straight into Birmingham’s defensive zone.

From then on though, there was no clear dominance, making for a gripping game.

Birmingham’s Ellis Hammond stole the puck from UEA before going on to take it all the way to the net. Luckily, goaltender Sam Birkentals stood strong and deflected it away. Avalanche scored first, 11 minutes into the first period: a chippy goal from Ben Long, after a few close calls for us. However, eight minutes later

Photo: Trish Thompson Birmingham’s John Bawn answered back, making it 1 – 1 to end the first period.

An astonishing 40 seconds into the second period, UEA’s Graham Austin scored, a quick start driving us up to 2 – 1. It didn’t take long for a response though, with Birmingham pushing the puck back into UEA’s defensive