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350 13th March 2018 Issue 350
The official student newspaper of the University of East Anglia | concrete-online.co.uk
>> 135 reports in the last 5 years >> Students march to reclaim the night
Is there a sexual assault epidemic at UEA? Emily Hawkins & Sophie Bunce Editor-in-Chief and Deputy Editor The highest number of reported incidents of rape, assault and harassment at a university took place at UEA over the past five years. 135 incidents were reported at UEA, an ITV News investigation found. UEA said the higher number signifies a positive reaction to their
assault and harassment awareness campaigns. However, the accuracy of these statistics has been thrown into question, with claims there is not a clear reporting procedure. University of Surrey had the second highest number of reported instances, with 40. In response to the disparity between reported incidents at other universities, a UEA spokesperson said they are confident the much higher level of reports is an indication students feel confident to
report such incidents. “An increased rate of reporting is a positive sign that people feel more confident about reporting improper sexual conduct. “It is generally recognised that when organisations take steps to raise awareness of improper sexual conduct and encourage individuals to make reports that this leads to a significant spike in the number of complaints,” they said. UEA expresses a zero tolerance approach to sexual harassment on campus with a Never OK scheme,
through partnering with the students’ union. In the three years prior to the scheme the university received 38 complaints of sexual improper sexual conduct. Since the implementation of Never OK, the level of complaints rose by 97. The university said: "It is therefore possible to see a connection between the complaint volume and the impact of our activities around Changing the Culture. The University of Cambridge
received 173 complaints in the nine months following the introduction of its Breaking the Silence campaign, similar to UEA’s Never OK campaign. The university said, due to the nature of anonymous complaints, a single incident can result in multiple reports. “It would therefore not be accurate to regard the total number of complaints as being equivalent
January were on average 41 days, with the Student Support Service aiming to reduce this to 30. Waiting times for Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) did not fare much better, with a wait time of 24 days compared to an aim of 20. One second-year Politics student said: “I’ve been waiting since the beginning of January for
counselling sessions, the process as a whole is very disappointing and has started to affect my studies.” Another said that she had been advised to seek help from the service but is “reluctant because of the lengthy wait times and poor feedback from other students,” adding, “statistics like this only prove this to be true.”
SU Welfare Community and Diversity Officer Officer India Edwards said the figures were shocking. “Whilst the Uni told Concrete in January that wait times were ‘falling’, stats show students are still having to wait over 60 days to get help, with over a hundred sat on a waiting list.
“Not only does this fall short of the promises we’ve had over the past two years about SSS, it’s also much worse than most similar Universities- and won’t even cover the students who know the service isn’t up to scratch and are suffering
Continued on page 6
University say "still more to do" on counselling waits
Shannon McDonagh Senior News Reporter The Student Support Service has faced further criticism after statistics covering the first month of this year showed no progress in an expected increase in standards. Waiting times for counselling in
Continued on page 4
13th March 2018
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Editorial To 350 more Sophie Bunce Deputy Editor
Emily Mildren and Megan Furr
Celebrating 350 issues of student journalism Emily Hawkins Editor-in-Chief Publishing our 350th issue is somewhat of a daunting task. Knowing you are part of something with a history far greater than you and your year of editorship is both comforting (hearing tales of how other editors made mistakes, missed print deadlines and managed crises) and intimidating (just turn to page 12 to learn about our brilliant alumni currently working magic in the media). To mark the occasion, our writers have worked hard to produce a digital map of campus with Concrete’s biggest, and strangest, news stories plotted out. To see the fruits of our efforts, head to the website at concrete-online.co.uk. You can look up the last 26 years of student reporting on your halls of residences or see which of your favourite musicians have graced the LCR stage. There are some surprises in there - in a series of videos about UEA accommodation, Comment editor Jack Ashton takes a look at a Concrete news story from 2008 which reported on the projection of a pornographic video onto the side of Paston house. Features editor Tony Allen has also interviewed Gavin Hudson, who runs the students’ union’s venues, on the most notable artists UEA has played host to and on the UEA Gig History project which collates these. We have also taken a look back at something UEA does best: protest. From ‘die-ins’ over fossil fuel investments to lecturers on the picket line to students occupying the Arts building, UEA students have never shied away from voicing
their views on the issues of the day. This sentiment has been echoed in recent weeks, with UCU industrial action continuing against proposed pension plans. Although the two organisations involved have been in talks, it doesn’t seem like much progress has occurred. In the last fortnight, I watched as the UUK had an absurd Twitter spat with those confused about when the next resolution negotiating meetings would take place. Sometimes it is reassuring to see that the gap between adulthood and adolescence isn’t too great, but when it could potentially be something the future of academia rests on, the lack of maturity is worrying.
"To see the fruits of our efforts, head to the website at concreteonline.co.uk" Whether you’re ardently supporting the cause or not, it is fair to say campus is getting cabin fever, with many classes cancelled because of strike action or snow. If you’re stuck on what to do, Comment has provided a tongue-in-cheek to-do list on what to do instead of working out how much money’s worth of teaching you’re missing out on, on page 16. On our website, News editor Matt Nixon has also compiled a
timeline of the UCU action, from our first story on the ballot to take action in December to the latest news. He also spoke to lecturers on strike, and you can watch these video interviews online. In Travel this fortnight, Megan Furr ponders whether colonialism has had an impact on tourism in countries like India, with statues and monuments still casting the British Empire’s long shadow. How we commemorate and remember the immoral and horrific aspects of our past is a compelling debate, and one that has been discussed to great ends in the last 26 years of this newspaper. On page 5, Louise Lazell writes about the universities’ minister’s opinions on recent student movements to decolonise the curriculum. It seems to me that the minister has misunderstood the movements - our curriculums should challenge narratives of the past, not cement and reflect them by neglecting to include the voices of women and people of colour. To celebrate International Women’s Day last week, Features spoke to some of Concrete’s female editors, past and present. Don’t get me wrong - we’re proud of every Concrete alumnus, regardless of their gender. But these women represent to me what I love most about Concrete and, dare I say it, student journalism. The editors we spoke to are determined, committed, and have gone above and beyond the remits of a 9-5 job in their student journalism. Finally, thank you to every writer, illustrator, copyeditor who helped with this issue and the 350th project. Everybody at Concrete is a volunteer, and your hours of work do not go unappreciated.
They say time flies while you’re having fun, but they left out how quickly term passes when you’re planning the next issue. Our 350th issue of Concrete is just as diverse, collaborative and enthusiastic as any other, but saying that, having weekends off over the Easter break might be good for me and Emily… This issue's front page investigates a story that should have ended 350 issues ago; sexual assault on campus. Revolt Against Sexual Assaults’ survey showed that 31 percent of students have witnessed sexual assault or harrassment. While I found the number staggeringly high, my friends expected higher. Sexual assault is not exclusively a problem for the victims and perpetrators; ending sexual assault is a fight we all need to be a part of, witnesses included. This attitude was epitomised in Norwich’s Reclaim the Night (featured on our front page) which saw students march to end sexual assault and reclaim women's right to walk at night. If one debate isn’t enough, Comment features the topic still on everyone’s lips, (despite beginning discussions) the strikes. Jack Ashton’s article ‘Four alternatives to strike compensation’ informs and addresses how students can engage with the strikes on page 16. For our 350th, Features looks at International Women's Day and celebrates Concrete’s women in media on page 11. My favourite advice was bestowed by ex Editorin-Chief Geri Scott to fellow ex Editor-in-Chief Megan Baynes; “You can’t chase a story in heels.” Oddly enough, when I walked into my Deputy Editor interview, ex-Deputy Editor Caitlin Doherty complimented my pink loafers there is something about a pair of shoes. Articles on sexual assault, harrassment and strikes have featured all too frequently in Concrete’s last 350 issues, but we can work to eradicate them from the next.
concrete-online.co.uk Concrete_UEA concreteuea
The University of East Anglia’s Official Student newspaper since 1992 Tuesday 13th March 2018 Issue 350 Union House University of East Anglia Norwich NR4 7TJ 01603 593466 www.concrete-online.co.uk Editor-in-Chief Emily Hawkins concrete.editor@uea.ac.uk Deputy Editor Sophie Bunce concrete.deputy@uea.ac.uk Online Jacob Chamberlain Natalie Cotterill concrete.online@uea.ac.uk News News Editor: Matt Nixon Senior Reporter: Shannon McDonagh concrete.news@uea.ac.uk Global Eddie Booth concrete.global@uea.ac.uk Features Tony Allen Amy Newbery concrete.features@uea.ac.uk Comment Jack Ashton concrete.comment@uea.ac.uk Finance Finance Editor: Matt Denton Senior Reporter: Will Richardson concrete.finance@uea.ac.uk Science Science Editor: Beth Papworth Senior Reporter: Alex Millard concrete.scienv@uea.ac.uk Travel Beverly Devakishen concrete.travel@uea.ac.uk Sport Daniel Cook Sophie Christian concrete.sport@uea.ac.uk Chief Copy-Editors Hannah Brown Sophie Clayton concrete.copy@uea.ac.uk Marketing and Events Amelia Rentell Social Media Freddie Carty Art and Design Emily Mildren concrete.artdesign@uea.ac.uk
concrete_UEA Front page: Chloe Howcroft; Matt Nixon.
Editorial Enquiries Complaints & Corrections concrete.editor@uea.ac.uk
No part of this newspaper may be reproduced by any means without the permission of the Editor-in-Chief, Emily Hawkins. Published by the Union of UEA Students on behalf of Concrete. Concrete is a UUEAS society, but retains editorial independence as regards to any content. Opinions expressed herein are those of individual writers, not of Concrete or its editorial team.
News
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13th March 2018
Fortnight of strikes in exam time threatened Matt Nixon News Editor After failures to resolve an ongoing pensions dispute the Universities and College Union (UCU) threatened fourteen more days of strikes during exams. This was announced after conflict with the higher education representative organisation Universities UK (UUK) escalated. UCU and UUK were engaged in talks with the industrial conciliation service Acas last week. If the two bodies fail to resolve their dispute, sixty-five universities will face another wave of strikes. UCU said they were gathering information on when a fortnight of strikes would be most effective at different universities. UCU general secretary Sally Hunt called this “a necessary precaution against the failure of talks to deliver an acceptable settlement.” “The union would prefer dialogue and I have given my personal commitment to Acas that UCU is serious about reaching an agreement. However, if talks fail, we are prepared to carry out the action in defence of our pensions,” she continued. A spokesperson for UUK said they were disappointed the UCU were preparing additional action “that could further disrupt students’ education.” “We are committed to seeking a viable, affordable and mutually acceptable solution to the current challenges facing USS pensions.” The UCU said talks had seen “constructive engagement and progress.” However, strike-wearied staff and union officials criticised an apparent lack of commitment to resolution. UEA’s executives said they hope the talks “will help find common ground and resolve the dispute.” They said the university is working to minimise the effects of the industrial action on students. Heads of Schools will assess the impact of missed teaching on
Photos: Matt Nixon
students' learning. More than 80 striking staff signed an open letter to Vice-Chancellor Professor David Richardson which asked him to exert pressure on UUK to re-evaluate pensions assumptions and produce a plan “ that serves the interests of all.” SU Postgraduate Education Officer Maddie Colledge evaluated students’ roles in the dispute, suggesting in a blog that they might feel like pawns She said: “It is right to be angry about all of this, but it is time that we started channelling this anger at the people who have the capacity to make change, and not the academics who are taking industrial action as a last resort.” Staff plan to strike every day this week. On Monday, striking staff planned to hold a rabbitthemed picket under the theme #RabbitsOfResistance. Controversy also surrounds a September UUK survey about the Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS), the main pensions provider for university staff. On Friday 9 March, Churchill
were actually able to formulate a properly constituted response and it is becoming increasingly clear that of those that did send in a response several highlighted that it did not correspond to a view based on a formal college consultation.”
"It is right to be angry, but it is time we started channelling this anger at the people who have the capacity to make change" Universities UK acknowledged the letter but are yet to respond. Their lack of speed and clarity in responses to striking staff prompted a petition to make UUK subject to the Freedom of Information Act. The petition has more than 10,000 signatures.
For interviews from the picket line and up to date coverage of staff action, visit www.concrete-online.co.uk for more College, Cambridge wrote to them to seek clarification of the role played by the responses of Oxbridge Colleges to the survey. The letter states: “It has not been spelled out how many colleges
Dr. Will Davies, a political economist at Goldsmiths university, tweeted: “Will the last University in the UK that is still represented by @UniversitiesUK please turn the lights out.”
Writers join workers with series of cancelled events Shannon McDonagh Senior News Reporter Writers with connections to UEA have supported the UCU strike by hosting alternative teach in events and cancelling speaking events. Wednesday 7 March saw a ‘Writers for the Strike’ evening held at the Scholar’s Bar, in Union House. The event was organised in just two days, following the cancellation of Costa Book Award winning author Jon McGregor’s appearance at the
UEA Literary Festival. McGregor said he cancelled in solidarity with those deciding to strike. “I have never crossed a picket line in my life, and am not about to start now,” he said. Hosted by Philip Langeskov and Jean McNeill, the line-up of 13 speakers included poets, novelists and journalists and comprised of names such as Sarah Perry, Megan Bradbury and James Meek. The selection was completed by UEA’s own award-winning writers teaching in its school of
Literature, Drama and Creative such as Sophie Robinson and Rebecca Stott. Students were given the opportunity to contribute through open mic pieces in solidarity with their academics. UEA UCU President Brett Mills said: “We hope the university will seek to minimise any further disruption to students by ensuring that Universities UK commits to proper negotiations to resolve this dispute.” McGregor’s event was not the first to be cancelled in support of
the strikes. A UEA Live evening scheduled for last Thursday was cancelled following the headliner Joanna Walsh deciding to step down. The Writers Centre Norwich tweeted a series of statements on her behalf, which said: “I'm deeply sorry to feel I have to cancel tonight's reading of Seed. “As a PhD candidate at the University of East Anglia, I must acknowledge the input of my supervisors and other UEA staff into developing the work and respect
their decision to strike today, which I wholeheartedly support.” The Pulitzer prize-winning journalist Chris Hedges confirmed he would not be giving his lecture ‘How We Can Fight Back Against the Catastrophe We Are Living Under’ at the university as intended. Instead he said he would relocate the event off campus to The Forum, with donations from the event given to the UCU Strike Fund. Baroness Patricia Hollis also rearranged a talk off campus in support of the strike action.
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13th March 2018
News Students warned of mumps outbreak Office for Students defends Matt Nixon News Editor The University Medical Service (UMS) sent a warning to students after having more than 18 confirmed cases of mumps at UEA in the last few months. The UMS, whose services include the UEA Medical Centre, announced the outbreak. The letter urged students to check whether or not they have been vaccinated against Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR).
"Students are considered a higher-risk group for contracting measles" Measles, mumps, and rubella are highly infectious conditions that the NHS warn can have serious, and potentially fatal, complications. Some of the largest risks of the three conditions include meningitis, swelling of the brain (known as encephalitis), and deafness. Continued from front page in silence instead.” Providing students with easy to access mental health and wellbeing services has been a crucial talking point of the students’ union campaigning for several years. It also featured heavily in this year’s sabbatical officer elections. It was suggested the university should appoint more counsellors, however both the students’ union and university think the problem may be elsewhere. The current staff to student ratio is 1:2,237, within the ratio recommended for universities by the Higher Education Policy Institute and higher than an average ratio of counsellors to students of 1:5,000. Ms Edward said: “The figures don’t necessarily point to a need for more counsellors- there seems to be a blockage in the therapy allocation process- but whatever the issue it needs to be sorted quickly and a proper plan put in front of us that assures us that things will get better. “Every single student being failed by these figures deserves better and we’ll be stepping up our lobbying and campaigning on this in the next month or so to secure it.” Ms Edwards said just 66 people on campus were being provided with counselling. UEA’s Director of Student Support Services Dr Jon Sharp said: “The question of waiting times is one that needs to be handled carefully, particularly in terms of making comparisons between
status after damning report
Photo: Matt Nixon
T h e n e w s of the outbreak at UEA follows a report from Public Health England (PHE) who warn that measles outbreaks have also been confirmed across the UK. There are also currently large outbreaks of the disease in Europe, with Italy, Germany, and Romania being affected worst. Dr Mary Ramsey, the head of Immunisations at PHE, has said “The UK recently achieved [World Health Organisation] measles elimination status and so the overall risk of measles to the UK population is low. “However, due to ongoing measles outbreaks in Europe, we will continue to see cases in unimmunised individuals and limited onward spread can occur in communities with low MMR (Measles, Mumps and Rubella) coverage and in age groups with very close mixing." Students are considered a higher-risk group for contracting measles, mumps, rubella, and meningitis because they live in close proximity to one another, which different institutions. “At UEA we have begun a significant process of management information gathering and reporting, the results of which are being shared with the students’ union as part of our commitment to a transparent and partnership based approach to delivery. “We are still in the process of fine-tuning that information gathering, but we have already been able to use the information to drive improvements in our waiting times." Dr Sharp confirmed the current waiting times for Psychological Wellbeing, which are low-intensity sessions with self-help materials for those with moderate anxiety or depression, is ten days. No students are currently waiting for this type of appointment. “We are expected to achieve targets for CBT and counselling within the next month,” he said. He said in the last eighteen months positive changes were made. These include expanding the range of wellbeing services available, introducing more group and workshop based activities, reducing waiting times for counselling and introducing a same day appointment scheme. “However, I also recognise that there is still more to do," he told Concrete. Dr Sharp continued: "I am working vigorously with the Wellbeing team and in partnership with the students’ union to ensure that we continue to make the necessary improvements and enhancements to the Wellbeing service.”
Mingming Zheng News Reporter
Photo: Matt Nixon
magnifies the risk of infection. Students are recommended to protect themselves from mumps and measles by receiving two doses of the MMR vaccine. The vaccine is free on the NHS to all adults and children who are not up to date with their two doses. More information about the vaccine and how you can get it is available on the NHS website or can be obtained by contacting your GP.
Sam Gyimah has refuted claims that the government’s new higher education regulator, the Office for Students (OfS), had its reputation damaged by the controversial appointment of ex-journalist Toby Young earlier this year. The university minister’s comments follow a report published by Peter Ridell, the commissioner for public appointments, on Wednesday 28 February. The report, which Labour MP Lucy Powell has described as “absolutely damning”, found there was “clear disparity” in the way different candidates were treated during the OfS’ application process. According to the report, which set out to detail the level of political interference in the OfS’ appointment process, the former universities' minister Jo Johnson contacted Toby Young about applying for a position on the higher education regulator. The report concluded that under the codes which govern public appointments, there were “serious shortcomings in terms of the fairness and transparency aspects.” Gyimah said he does not believe the revelations have hurt the
government body’s reputation. He said the chairman of the watchdog, Sir Michael Barber, had “great credibility” and that Toby Young’s appointment was only one of a 15 strong board. Toby Young stepped down from his position as a regulator nine days into his job after controversial statements which he made about eugenics and women’s breasts emerged. The universities minister did admit that “no-one would have wished what has happened,” and added: “things could have [been] done better.” Gyimah also explained that, moving on, the OfS board would have “proper student representation,” after the report revealed that Downing Street advisers had attempted to block student members with a history of student union involvement. Gyimah also commented on recent criticisms of universities referring to value for money, size of graduate premiums, and the actual purpose of universities. He said recent criticisms do not represent “a sort of annus horribilis [horrible year] for higher education, a storm to be weathered in the hope of calmer times ahead.”
Academic warns of Cringleford mudbath
Matt Nixon News Editor An academic has said there are unacceptably muddy pathways on campus. Muddy pathways near the lake, which connect UEA to Cringleford, are “putting many people off walking to work,” according to one lecturer. They said despite reporting the conditions of the paths over a month ago they felt the situation had not improved. “My issue is with UEA's lack of action in improving the condition of pathways for those of us who walk into work from the Cringleford area. “I struggle through because I try to minimise my car usage as much as possible; the personal cost is I often turn up to work with muddy shoes and, worse, muddy trousers,” they said. “It might not seem like a big deal, but why should I have to put
up with these conditions when I'm doing the right thing according to UEA transport aims and goals?” UEA encourages staff and students to walk or bicycle. However, the lecturer says the university should ensure there are safe, clean, and accessible pathways if they recommend this. “We don't want to see the area paved or even a wooden boardwalk installed. We would just like some gravel put down in the mud-prone areas so one is able to walk to work without the mess.” The lecturer said the path was worse in winter, describing it as “a mud bath for most of December to the end of March - it is never able to dry out.” “I do know a number of people drive when it rains due to the state of the path, these people would walk in if it wasn't for the mud. “One might ask why we don't wear wellies; I don't want to walk four miles in wellies and I certainly don't want to carry them for that
short mud battle. Plus, I am often already carrying papers and other things already.” A university spokesperson confirmed a report was made in January about the condition of “a particularly muddy and wet area of trail near the Mathematical bridge at the south west corner of the Broad on campus.” “We acknowledged this email and our landscape manager is investigating the issue raised. “The weather conditions over the last few weeks have caused rivers to burst their banks in the surrounding areas, and currently there are a number of informal paths and trails which are muddy on campus,” they said. The grounds team continue to work to “minimise disruption to formal campus pathways” by monitoring the condition and cleaning or pressure washing hard surfaces to remove mud, moss, or damp patches which may become slippery.
13th March 2018
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Minister hesistant to decolonise syllabuses
News 'We should decolonise the curriculum' Elodie Mayo Comment Writer
Photo: Alex Hayford Louise Lazell News Reporter The universities minister Sam Gyimah has spoken out against decolonising university curriculums amid calls from students to study more work by writers from black and minority ethnic (BAME) backgrounds. Gyimah cautioned universities about removing specific writers and ideas from courses, purely because they are not students’ favourite topics. He also stressed that part of the challenge of higher education involves studying aspects course which may be disliked. “What we should be cautious
of - and this is caution - is phasing out parts of the curriculum that just happen to be unpopular or unfashionable,” Gyimah said.
"The university experience is actually facing up to the unpopular" “I genuinely believe that part of the university experience is actually facing up to the unpopular, facing up to the unfashionable, engaging with it, challenging it, that is how you widen your horizons.” His comments follow an
announcement earlier this month from the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), who said the university is decolonising its curriculums. Baroness Amos, Director of SOAS, said the university is doing this as part of a cultural shift. Students at SOAS previously made requests to have philosophical figures like Plato and Descartes to be phased out of syllabuses, to give a larger focus on philosophers from Africa and Asia. In November last year the University of Cambridge made headlines after their English department began discussing plans to include more postcolonial and BAME writers in their syllabus. UEA SU ethnic minorities
officer Amani Mathurin defended Cambridge’s decision. She said: “Universities like UEA should be radical on this issue – recognising that curriculum diversity isn’t a call for the exclusion of white men from reading lists, but instead is a call to recognise and include the work of marginalised writers who have been silenced by history.” Commenting on UEA’s stance, head of literature Dr Jeremy NoelTodd said at the time: “I’ve made a school-wide conversation about diversity in the curriculum one of my priorities this year. "We know that students feel strongly about this and it is important to show that, as academic staff, we do too.”
A decolonised syllabus incorporates more expressions of thought from people of black and minority ethnicities. This should especially be implemented in the humanities and social sciences. The curriculum needs decolonisation, as we live in 21st century multicultural Britain and not in the 18th century British Empire - unless for some reason you feel like going back? The whole point of learning is to engage with multiple opinions and create your own judgement, especially in literature, which is written by the people, for the people, and is an overarching representation of the world in its current state. So why then is it that we are only fed a certain point of view, and why is only that considered the valid or ‘canonical’ one? Decolonisation will decrease the damaging process of 'othering’ and dismantle understandings of 'us' and 'them'. The desire to decolonise the curriculum is not because we are just upset. Upset is when your football team loses a match, or when someone steps on your new trainers. Expanding the curriculum is a form of empowerment, and a way to ask for more, as what we have for representation is either onedimensional or very scarce.
Second year running for Graduate set to publish debut novel Labour top committee Tony Allen News Reporter
Jack Ashton News Reporter A UEA student is campaigning to be elected for a seat on the Labour Party’s internal National Executive Committee. Eda Cazimoglu, a secondyear student, is running to be the Labour Youth Representative on the governing body against Momentum backed candidate, Lara McNeill, who is the current Vice Chair of Labour Students. The winner will take one of the 39 seats on the NEC, the body responsible for various internal changes within the party, including membership rates and voting in leadership elections. However, the vote has been met with controversy following changes to the way the position is elected. As of last year, the position is half elected by party members, half by unions and people affiliated to the party, effectively removing the power of Labour students who tend to favour more moderate candidates.
Eda is running on a manifesto promising to lobby for more funding for the youth movement, the introduction of youth officer training in each region and to set up a mentoring scheme for young people, among other things. However, so far, Eda has fallen behind in union support, with her opponent claiming the endorsements from most major unions, including UNITE, UNISON, ASLEF and GMB. Eda told Concrete: “Imagine what we could do if we built a movement that was anti-fascist to its core, liberated and truly democratic… That’s the movement I will build.” She promised to champion Labour’s young members, “raising up your voices so Labour reflects the vision we hold for the future of our country. "That includes passionately pushing for us to be anti-hard Brexit, pro-freedom of movement and pro-remaining in the single market.” Voting, available to Labour youth members, closes March 16th.
UEA alumnus Elizabeth Macneal’s debut novel The Doll Factory will be published next year by Picador, it has been announced. The historical novel, following the twisted tale of two characters who first meet at the 1850 Great Exhibition in Hyde Park, was praised by Picador Senior Commissioning Editor Sophie Jonathan, who remarked that it “deserves to be a sensation.” Picador secured the UK and Commonwealth rights to the novel, plus a follow-up, beating thirteen other bids. Ms Johnson continued: “The world Elizabeth draws is rich and evocative, beautiful and grotesque, and so clearly the product of a mind fascinated by form and colour The Doll Factory is one of the most heart-stopping, gripping books I have ever read.” The novel is already causing a stir, having won the £1,000 prize for the 2018 Caledonia Novel Award for self- and non-published works. An Oxford graduate, Macneal completed UEA’s Creative Writing MA programme last year after being awarded the Malcolm Bradbury
Photo: Matt Nixon Memorial Scholarship. Edinburgh native Macneal also makes pottery from her London home. She said: “While I started this novel relatively recently, I’ve been writing for over ten years, and I’ve poured so much of my love of writing into the character of Iris and her pursuit of painting.” Macneal will be hoping to emulate the success of her fellow UEA MA
Creative Writing graduate Emma Healy. In 2014, Healy’s Elizabeth Is Missing scooped a Costa Book Award for best debut novel. Picador, an imprint of the Pan Macmillan publishing house, is best known for publishing rising stars alongside its established poetry arm, having acquired collections by Carol Ann Duffy and Kate Tempest.
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News Continued from front page
to the total number of incidents. Particularly important in this regard is the fact that witnesses to potentially improper conduct are able to make anonymous reports and so an incident with multiple witnesses could generate a number of complaint reports.
62%
The number of students who had experienced sexual violence
Revolt Against Sexual Assault is a national campaign working to expose the level of sexual assault and harassment at university. The campaign’s survey, in collaboration with The Student Room surveyed 4,491 students and recent graduates across 153 institutions. 62 percent had experienced sexual violence. Six percent of those who experienced sexual assault or harassment, reported their experience of sexual violence to the university. Only two percent of sexual violence victims felt both able to report it to their university and then satisfied with the reporting process. SU Welfare Community and Diversity Officer India Edwards said: "If you look at the Freedom of Information requests that this
was based on, you'll find that most Universities just returned figures based on their equivalent of UEA SSS- but UEA gave figures back that looked at incidents reported to Security, University HR and SSS. Not only does that make UEA look like an outlier, it also could mean double counting of the same incidents. “This kind of statistical mess is exactly why we've been calling for a proper integrated single reporting scheme. But generally we should never be afraid of high reporting rates given what we know about the true scale of sexual harassment and assault, any increase in recorded incidents is far more likely to mean better confidence in reporting than it is more incidents."
"Increase in recorded incidents is far more likely to mean better confidence in reporting" Revolt Against Sexual Assault’s survey said 56 percent of students did not report as they thought it ‘wasn’t serious enough,’ 35 percent felt too ashamed and 29 percent didn’t know how to make a report.
Reclaim the Night returns Chloe Howcroft News Reporter The national annual march against sexual violence and gender equality, Reclaim the Night, hit the streets of Norwich for its third time on Thursday 8 March. The march took place on the same date as International Women’s Day. Taking place in the intimate confines of The Dog House Bar in the city centre, the event included a selection of poetry and spoken word performances, followed by a march down to Prince of Wales Road and back. One student activist, Lotty Clare, spoke to Concrete about her inspirations for writing and performing her own poetry. “It is because of seeing so many people share their experiences online and on TV – I know not everyone is able to speak up about their experiences, but it is empowering when they do.” “It’s important to celebrate how far we’ve come for gender equality, but we still have a long way to go in terms of gender based violence, for example,” she added.
Other performers included activist Katy Jon Went and students from the UEA as well as representatives of Leeway, a local sexual abuse charity, where donations were made on the night. Unlike other Reclaim the Night events across the country, such as London which is considered a ‘women-only’ march, Norwich’s variation promotes an all-inclusive attitude towards supporting all individuals who may be affected by sexual harassment. Second year student, Ryan Jordan said: “When I
performed, my heart was pounding at first.
But in the second half, I thought, ‘I’m with people who are amazing', and in Norwich you feel that you can do anything, unlike London.” He continued: “You’ve got a beautifully different array of people. It feels so safe. And UEA has always been very accepting. I feel okay being myself, and I feel that’s what Reclaim the Night is about.” Several speeches also referred to the ‘Changing the Culture’ and ‘Never Okay’ campaigns at UEA, as well as topical campaigns such #MeToo and #TimesUp, which have encouraged a more public dialogue on sexual harassment. Juliet Donaghy, who sits on the chair of the Non-binary and Women’s network at UEA, helped to organise the event. She spoke on the importance of holding an event like this in Norwich. “It’s completely tragic that some people don’t feel safe on the streets of Norwich; everyone should feel safe and empowered, and part of a community that supports them. "Until that happens, we’re going to need to do events like these and talk about some of the things that have happened Chloe Howcroft to us.”
New city accommodation controversy UEA falls in world rankings,
still strong in subject leagues
Cat Leyland News Reporter Plans to provide more largescale, private student housing in Norwich’s city centre have yet again sparked controversy. Following the addition of the newly-built Pablo Fanque House near to the bus station, plans have been made for two more buildings which will house a total of 750 students. The proposals included changes to St Crispins House, which could be turned into homes for approximately 600 students, and the site next to Premier Inn on Duke Street, which could house another 150 students.
"These developments provide welcome additional capacity" While the initiatives were praised by some for the economic boost they would bring the city centre and for freeing up houses for families in the area, there have also been concerns about the risks of ‘studentification’. Norwich City Council has been criticised for not properly assessing how much student accommodation is needed, which Norwich’s Green Party said could lead to “piecemeal
Seàn Bennett News Reporter The results for the 2018 QS World University Rankings have been released, with UEA ranking 274th globally, falling by 22 places from its 2017 ranking, and by a whole 45 places below its highest rank of 229th in 2014.
Photo: Stephen Richards, Geograph development” in the city centre. Criticism has also centred around the plans to develop flats on a piece of land next to the Premier Inn on Duke Street. This proposal has raised more than 90 objections, primarily due to the proposed height of the building. At an estimated nine stories high, the building would overshadow the nearby Jane Austen Academy. Speaking to the Norwich Evening News, James Goffin (part of the Inspiration Trust which owns the Academy) stated: “We remain extremely concerned about the overly domineering size of this structure, both on the Duke Street scene and directly on the environs of Jane Austen College.” Other neighbours have also objected to the building’s size and the resulting lack of light. On Thursday 8 March, city councillors finally voted to turn down the development for 152 students at the site next to Premier
Inn on Duke Street. Fourteen people spoke against the application at the City Council’s planning committee meeting. However, the planning committee did unanimously approve the separate application to convert the nearby St Crispin’s House office block into 600 student rooms. A spokesperson for UEA said: “UEA recognises that a diverse student population requires a diverse range of accommodation solutions and it is certainly the case that for some students, accommodation offered by private providers is their choice of living arrangement." They added: “These developments provide welcome additional capacity and choice for all of Norwich’s universities’ students and they also serve to breathe new life into key city-centre sites that have been economically redundant for some years.”
"UEA also ranked 40th for Environmetal studies and 49th for Geography" However, the university did find itself doing well in individual subject leagues, ranking as high as 12th in the subject rankings for Development Studies, placing it above both Manchester and Princeton University. UEA also ranked 40th for Environmental Studies, 49th for Geography, and landed in the top 200 universities for English language and literature. The possible reason for UEA's overall decline in the face of resilient subject rankings is that the two are measured by different parameters. Subject tables place more emphasis on research, the quality of which has changed little in the UK,
remaining high and possibly even getting slightly higher. QS also rank universities on criteria of ‘academic reputation’, ‘employer reputation’, and the number of citations made per paper. The 2018 QS world rankings have indicated a general decline for all UK universities over the past 18 months, however the country also still maintains healthy rankings on the subject specific tables. Ten of the 48 subject tables are led by UK institutions, with 32 having a British university in one of the top three spots. A total of 34 percent of top three positions are currently held by the UK. No UK University which held world-leading status has been usurped by an international competitor, with Oxford, Cambridge and UCL all holding on to their top spots. The top three universities on the QS rankings are MIT, Stanford, and Harvard University, respectively. The news looks especially good for UK universities when cast in the context of academic performance in all of Europe, which appears to have undergone a steady and greater decline than the UK in recent years. Amid concerns about higher education following Brexit, the relatively stable rankings of UK institutions will serve to rebuild some confidence in the sector, though perhaps not enough to avoid further problems later down the line.
this year uea and the SU are giving you the opportunity to do something different every day
headliners this week’s mon: dancesport presents strictly uea
Tue: uea presents european cinema: receptance wed: showchoir presents you reall got me singing thu: careers central presents how to write a great cv
something
different
fri: ueactive presents body pump
fInd out more: ueadifferent.com
8
Global
13th March 2018
Xi cements positon in China Eddie Booth Global Editor Chinese Premier Xi Jinping has moved to cement his position this week, removing the constitutional limits which would have forced him to step down following the end of his second term in office. The change, which will likely be rubber stamped by the less-than independent Parliament body, would potentially allow Xi to remain as Premier for decades to come.
“The history of China tinges the debate with emotion and past significance” This move is part of a wider range of centralisation policies put forward by Xi, who has sought to consolidate power of both the Communist Party of China (CPC) and other state mechanisms under his own hand. Xi has also appointed allies to key positions within the CPC, allowing him to maintain sprawling influence over a wide array of issues and power points within both China and the Party. The move has been hugely controversial within China, even in areas where Xi could traditionally hope to garner support, particularly among neoconservatives who have welcomed the rise of a powerful figure to take control of the CPC. Even these analysts are skeptical of Premier Xi’s reasoning for altering the constitution, the first such change in over a decade. For liberal opinion within China, this is a remorseless power grab by a man looking to hang onto
Photo: Kremlin, President of Russia power indefinitely. Combined with continued crackdowns on corruption whistleblowers, critical press and protest, the move is hugely unpopular with large parts of the population. The history of China tinges the debate with emotion and past significance. The reign of Chairman Mao, under whom the repressive nature of the Chinese state reached a peak and millions perished through famine, is still fresh in the memories of many. The concern is that Xi is making the same mistakes which led to the
famine under Mao, surrounding himself with friends and associates who will not challenge him. Indeed, parallels have been drawn between Mao’s untouchable position as Chairman of the party and the removal of the term limits on Xi’s premiership. Mao, who became leader following a bloody civil war in 1947, is still a huge figure in Chinese culture and history, despite the debate about his legacy and the crimes comitted under his regime. Though comparisons between the two are obviously imperfect and oft exaggerated, the history of China in
the latter stages of the 20th century colours the debate significantly. For the rest of the world, the position of Xi Jinping is of particularly interest. China is set to surpass the USA as the world’s largest economy in the coming years, and by some metrics is there already. With this economic power, as well as a huge population, comes a new found diplomatic role which the Chinese state is still adapting to. China will play a pivotal role in any resolution to the North Korean tension, as well as a wider geopolitical position as a country
of real influence. As a G8 nation, China has grown in confidence when commenting on the situation in the Middle East and expanding links with developing nations in Africa. Further, with President Trump announcing the introduction of new tariffs and his history of directing his ire at the Chinese, a trade war could be in the offing. Xi has warned in recent days that retaliation to new tariffs is likely. A conflict between the world’s largest economies could be trouble for global growth.
Syrian rebels continue to be bombarbed, reports Ollie Ryan Tucker A February military offensive aimed at breaking the resolve of Damascus’ last rebel pockets has resulted in a humanitarian catastrophe, with 400,000 Syrians trapped in rebelcontrolled Eastern Ghouta. Eastern Ghouta, a suburb of Damascus, is controlled by a number of Salafi Islamist groups including Jaysh alIslam, Ahrar al-Sham and Tahrir al-Sham, all three of whom wish to create an Islamic state in Syria under Sharia law. The al-Rahman legion, which is described as Islamist but non-Salafist is also present. Tahrir al-Sham, or HTS, has been described as al-Qaeda in Syria, though analysts have pointed out that whilst ideologically similar, HTS and al-Qaeda have made it clear the link is not official. The offensive began on 18th February and has largely consisted
of heavy artillery and aerial bombardment which has led to a heavy civilian death toll. According to medical groups such as Doctors Without Borders, the Syrian army and its Russian air support have been deliberatedly targeting medical facilities with the intention of removing Eastern Ghouta’s capacity to provide healthcare.
two. Russia has offered the rebels safe passage in a deal similar to that struck in Eastern Aleppo, where fighters are moved to other rebel-held locations with personal weapons and their families, however this was described by rebel
“Hope of a peaceful political settlement to the civil war sharply faded” On 7 March, the Syrian army successfully captured a village within the pocket, Mesraba, splitting the rebel-held territory in
groups a s “psychological warfare”. Analyst Michael Stephens stated that
the fall of the rebel-held pocket was inevitable. The rebels have responded to the offensive by increasing indiscriminate shelling of d e n s e l y populated
governmentheld Eastern Damascus, which has killed a number of civilians. The offensive comes as hope of a peaceful political settlement to the civil war sharply faded with the failure of both peace initiatives, Western-backed Geneva and Russia supported Sochi. At the Sochi conference in January,
opposition delegates refused to leave the airport until progovernment logos and slogans were removed. Analysts have also suggested that the West played into Syrian hands by agreeing to a series of “deescalation zones” which later became the regime’s “war-management strategy”. The de-escalation zones were aimed at reducing the violence in the conflict and leading to a longterm political solution, instead they allowed the Syrian government to choose where and when it wanted to fight, minimising risk and maximising the chances of success. Western powers such as Britain and France remain adamant that there is no place for Assad in the long-term peace process. Photo (L-R): Arian Zwegers; yeowatzup, Wikimedia
9
13th March 2018
Women’s rights on global agenda Megan Furr Global Writer International Women’s Day has this year been propelled into public discourse, a result of the myriad of events and movements instrumental in publicising the degree of sexism that women face. From the Time’s Up and #MeToo movements, prompted by the uncovering of mass sexual harassment in Hollywood, to debates and referendums surrounding abortion in Ireland and Argentina; the International Women’s Day is both a day to celebrate the progress being made towards gender equality, and highlight improvements which still need to be made. In Russia, for example, two flight attendants working for the airline, Aeroflot, won compensation, after the airline decided to correlate the pay of its flight attendants with their dress size. Although the airlines actions were not ultimately
Photo: Soman, Wikimedia considered ‘discriminatory,’ the case proved important in challenging discrimination within the workplace, especially given Russia’s ‘conservative values,’ whereby women are still often judged by their looks. Indeed, in April 2017 a teenage rape victim’s appearance on TV provoked much debate, after
many people expressed support for her rapist. The victim further became an object of jokes and memes, which became a tasteless advertising campaign by Burger King Russia, demonstrating how the changing of societal attitudes remains an obstacle in overcoming gender inequality. To a large extent
this has become harder in Russia, given the political frameworks which support a patriarchal society; last year, Russia worryingly softened the domestic violence law and women are still banned from certain jobs in order ‘to protect their reproductive health’. The past year has also seen King
Salman in Saudi Arabia passing a decree which has allowed women to drive for the first time, in his country. Within this culturally conservative society, Saudi Arabia imposes strict gender roles, and women previously had to have the permission of a male guardian to travel, thus the passing of the decree led to the I Am My Own Guardian hashtag gaining traction on Twitter. However, like in most conservative countries progress towards equality is slow, and despite the latest decree being an important step, women still require permission from a male family member to open a bank account, get a job or to get married. The #WhereIsMyName campaign in Afghanistan and #LipstickRebellion in India, have shown the significance of social media in challenging gender norms within conservative countries. As much as this last year has promised in progression of women’s rights, patriarchal structures and social misogyny still remain.
Prince bin Salman pays May a royal visit Oli Povey Global Writer The heir to the Saudi Arabian throne began his visit to the UK on Wednesday amongst the backdrop of protests, mainly toward his country’s role in the Yemeni civil war. Mohammed bin Salman, 32, began his trip by dining with Her Majesty the Queen at lunchtime on Wednesday. He later visited the Prime Minister, where they discussed future trade deals between the two nations. Talks agreed on an ambitious £65 billion trade agreement which a Downing Street spokesman described as a “demonstration of international confidence in our economy as we prepare to leave the European Union.” The UK already has strong trade links with Saudi Arabia, primarily through the sale of armaments and aircraft.
“The Prince is seen as a modernising force” The Prince himself is seen as a modernising force in Saudi Arabia, with his ambitious ‘Vision 2030’ plan seeking to transition Saudi Arabia away from a fragile oil-based economy. He has also pushed for greater rights in the highly conservative country, such as women being allowed to drive, and initiated a hard crackdown on corruption in the country. However, this too has been criticised for
potentially shutting down critics of the Saudi regime. There have also been clear violations of human rights in the country. However, his reception in the UK has been challenged by politicians and the public. Opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn decried Britain’s sales of weapons to the regime as “colluding in war crimes” against the Yemeni people in the ongoing civil war. Theresa May countered in the Commons by saying that Britain has increased humanitarian aid and already pressed the Saudis to open ports for aid to the rebels. She later raised concerns toward the humanitarian situation with the Prince when she met him after Prime Minister’s Questions. Protests have been held outside Parliament and Downing Street against Saudi Arabia’s role in the civil war. The Yemeni civil war is an ongoing conflict in the Arabian Peninsula. Since 2015, the Yemeni government, led by Mansour alHadi, has fought Houthi rebels who assumed control of the country in what he describes as a “coup d’état.” The conflict has grown into a situation where both sides are backed by regional powers, the al-Hadi government by Saudi Arabia, alongside eight other Arab nations, and the Houthi rebels by Iran. The United States supports the Saudi Arabian coalition which is blockading the Houthi controlled regions of Yemen. This has led to famine and cholera outbreaks which the United Nations described in December as a “massive humanitarian crisis.”
Photos: (L-R), The White House; King Eliot, Wikimedia
Features Who are the Freemasons? 10
13th March 2018
kzd, Pixabay
Tony Allen Features Editor It was in the 1988 Christmas special of Only Fools and Horses when Del Boy asked Boycie to recommend him for his Masonic Lodge. Boycie came back with the results, Del tentatively ventured to ask if he’d been ‘black-balled’ by any member of the Lodge in their famous selection process. Boycie replied with a smug grin, comparing the bowl to a hollow of rabbit droppings. But who actually are the Freemasons? And is it really that difficult to get into the club? There are more than 200,000 Freemasons in England, Wales, the Isle of Man and the Channel Islands, belonging to over 7,000 local lodges, according to the figures from the United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE), the group which coordinates all of the masonic lodges and a university programme. The notoriously secretive group, with links to business leaders and the forces, is a male-only organisation, with the motto “making good men better”. But what does this mean? Lodges are arranged around key values like
“kindness” and “tolerance”, with their marketing materials focused around self-fulfilment. The idea is that members help other members out in various areas of life outside their lodge’s meetings, but do not shout about their membership of a lodge. The UGLE says that “Freemasonry does not discriminate on grounds of race, colour, religion, political views or social standing.” They avoid mentioning gender. However, despite the UGLE’s repeated attempts to use PR to clean up the image of Freemasonry, the popular view of Freemasonry is still that of a secret, nepotistic, elitist organisation determined to maintain a successful class of friends based more on who one knows rather than their skills. Recently, the Freemasons have received a lot of negative publicity in the media. However, say the Freemasons, far from being a conservative bastion of privilege in the modern world, their organisation is in fact a force for considerable good. Dr David Staples, Chief Executive of the UGLE, has started the #EnoughIsEnough campaign to challenge the reporting, interestingly also a
hashtag associated with a separate women’s rights campaign. Part of the campaign has included taking out adverts in several national newspapers and sending letters of complaint after critical articles appeared.
“A male-only organisation, with the motto “making good men better” One which particularly irked the UGLE was a Guardian exposé which claimed that there were two lodges originally formed in Westminster, frequented by former MPs and political journalists, who now meet at the UGLE’s London office. The UGLE demanded a retraction and apology but the article remains online, edited to note that while no sitting MPs are part of the Westminster lodges, several could be members of lodges local to their constituencies. The newspaper advert claims that last year Freemasons “raised over £33 million for good causes” through their internal-only fundraising programme and complains that
the coverage (described as “gross misrepresentation”) amounts to “discrimination” against the group’s members. Concrete got in touch with the Grand Lodge, in an attempt to dispel the myths surrounding Freemasonry. Despite the #EnoughIsEnough campaign, the Lodge denies that there is a problem. Mike Baker, The UGLE’s Director of Communications, told us: “In real terms, I’d suggest that [Freemasonry] is not attracting particularly bad media coverage at the moment. “Our Tercentenary celebrations in 2017, marking 300 years since the founding of the first Grand Lodge, and our recent response to the ongoing misrepresentation, prejudice and discrimination of Freemasonry in the press, ‘Enough is Enough’, has created heightened levels of awareness of United Grand Lodge of England. Hence, media reporting levels and ‘interest’ in the organisation have increased considerably.” Mr Baker continued: “Freemasonry offers different things to each of us, with common elements being friendship, integrity and caring for others. It is absolutely an organisation that focuses on
giving rather than receiving.” What is also not known by many is that The UGLE operates a Universities Scheme, with a lodge in Norwich city centre inviting student members from UEA. According to the scheme, there are over 55 lodges across the country welcoming students and university staff, following a “recent decision by Grand Lodge to halve their dues in order to make Freemasonry as accessible to as wide an audience as possible.” There are no hard-and-fast rules about getting in, with a form for interested applicants to fill out on the UGLE website. The first rule of Freemasonry is still, it seems, that you don’t talk about Freemasonry. But the Grand Lodge’s hand has been somewhat forced recently, and the debate is out in the open as much now as it has ever been. But the fact is, that public opinion won’t be able to change the nature of Freemasonry. And if the figure of 200,000 members is correct, despite the criticism Freemasonry continues to go from strength to strength in Britain, a fact that the image of an ‘old boys’ club’, better publicised now than ever, has done little to dispel.
Valiant effort by volunteers during snowstorm Roo Pitt Features Writer Storm Emma brought more snow than the UK has seen for almost half a century, yet an army of volunteers came forward to support statutory and local services. While the Police advised people to stay indoors and only to undertake “essential” travel, communities helped the most vulnerable; here are some of the organisations that made a difference in our local area. The week of sudden, treacherous conditions saw the formation of a Local Resilience Forum (LRF) 4x4 Coordination Cell, tasked with
ensuring people were not stranded. Made up of representatives from local authorities, the police and fire services and charities such as St John Ambulance and the British Red Cross. They coordinated 4x4 resources to help those working in health and social care, and the emergency services, get to places of work and assist those cut off by snow. Despite the weather, St John Ambulance deployed 172 volunteers to public events over the last week, providing 670 hours of medical support in our region. St John also supported health authorities by providing 4x4 support for patient and personnel transport, comprising of over 300 hours.
Wikimedia Commons, Alfox999
This, coupled with 18 personnel hours supplied to the LRF Coordination Cell, means that over a staggering 1000 hours were
donated to our communities, by volunteers from St John, between 26th February – 3rd March, with support still ongoing. Ed Watt, St John Ambulance’s Regional Emergency Preparedness, Resilience and Response Lead, said: “I’d like to thank all of our personnel who have responded to the request for help and made themselves available to be deployed where needed around the region.” The East of England Ambulance Service Trust (EEAST) saw increased demand and utilised their volunteer Community First Responders to respond to 999 calls. EEAST also requested those with 4x4s to support the Trust, above and beyond their usual roles,
especially in aiding front-line staff getting to and from work. In response to the sub-zero temperatures, St Peter Mancroft Church opened its doors to the City’s homeless citizens. With local volunteers on hand, who put out an appeal for warm clothes and shoes, response staff gratefully received substantial donations from UEA students and staff. In contrast, the SOS bus, a now permanent fixture in the city centre that cares for those who frequent Norwich’s clubland district was cancelled. In a post on Facebook, SOS bus, Norwich, stated “Due to poor weather conditions it is with regret that the SOS Bus will be out of action.”
Features 11
13th March 2018
Stimulants keep students up all night Emily Hawkins investigates study drugs, as one in five UK students admit taking Modafinil “They’re good. They help you focus.” Modafinil, the latest kid on the smart drug block, is attractive to many students. It’s not illegal to buy, and available relatively easily online if you don’t already know the right people. Staying awake and thinking clearly can sometimes be elusive habits for students; smart drugs promise a panacea when pressed for time or energy.
“Students said it’s only the elusive nature of purchasing the pills that puts them off using them more frequently” Sold under the brand Provigil, Modafinil is intended as a “wakefulness-promoting” treatment for sleep based disorders such as narcolepsy and excessive daytime sleepiness. Alongside drugs like Ritalin and Adderall, most so-called “smart drugs” are nootropics intended for the treatment of attention or sleep disorders, such as narcolepsy and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Research from Oxford and Harvard professors in 2015 triumphantly declared study drugs can make work feel more enjoyable, and boost mental aspects like creativity and concentration. “It can lead to headaches, nausea, anxiety - but so can life itself. You might as well take all the help you can get,” one article in the The Telegraph from Modafinil’s early days boasts. One in five UK students have taken the drug, according to an investigation by The Telegraph. This statistic is increased to one in four at the Oxbridge universities. In most cases, study drugs are taken for last minute intentions, when there’s an upcoming essay deadline or imminent exam. However, some students said it’s only the elusive nature of purchasing the pills that puts them off using them more frequently. “I’ve got a bad attention span and only tend to concentrate for an hour and then take a couple off,” one second-year explained. He said he took Modafinil because he had an essay deadline approaching and had “heard good things about them”. As simple as that. Oxford’s conclusions were published three years ago, and have been subject to criticism in the time since.
“It does help you concentrate,” one student said, “but you have to be already quite focused on something before you take it, otherwise you’ll just be manically cleaning your room for three hours.” “I’ve never suffered from focusing on the wrong thing, but a friend of mine completed multiple levels of his favourite computer game instead of working,” a student who wished to be quoted anonymously said. It’s not just a risk of spending hours and hours energetically completing the wrong task. Side effects of ‘smart drugs’ can include insomnia, headaches and skin rashes. Over the past few years, commentators have attributed students’ increased use of Ritalin and other “study drugs” to a high stakes young adulthood for a generation who came of age into a precarious laissez faire economic situation: tuition fees, an increasingly competitive job market, a post recession housing and renting market. Should these drugs be available in shops? Some say the best way to protect students is to regulate and control the consumption of cognitive enhancers in the context of how they’re used by university students.
“They’re drugs you take for a purpose not a high” The leading professor of Clinical Neuropsychology and cognitiveenhancing drugs, Dr Barbara Sahakian, told The Independent she believed that the licensing of study drugs to students could be a beneficial move. “I think the Government should look at the front runner drug that people are using as a cognitive enhancing drug, and actually get together with the drug company and assess whether it’s safe and effective for people to use,” she told The Independent. “If it is, then let them license it, and maybe sell it in Boots, and have people have the usual information about the side effects and then they can also go to their GP before they take it.”
Others say the drugs themselves are inherently wrong to use before exams. Using them is akin to cheating, critics have argued. “I’d compare it to a sportsperson taking steroids to improve their physical performance,” one student nonchalantly said. What does it mean for the higher education sector if, in a field of universities vying desperately to prove they’re the biggest and best places, students are taking enhancing drugs? On the whole, academics have issued caution about the normalisation of using drugs.
“Some say the best way to protect students is to regulate and control the consumption of cognitive enhancers” In the past couple of years there have been some calls on universities to introduce policies on the use of drugs - in the interest of fairness and student welfare. Thomas Lancaster, an associate dean at Staffordshire University, told the Guardian the sector was becoming a “dangerous world”, especially with many students using the dark web to buy their smart drugs. “Universities need to seriously consider how to react to the influx of smart drugs on campus. Educating students about smart drugs and seeing if they view this as cheating is important here.
“In most cases, study drugs are taken for last minute intentions” “If the trend continues, universities may need to think about drug testing to ensure the integrity of the examination process,” he said.
Oxford was the first university to introduce workshops specifically aimed at educating students about the risks of taking such drugs, last spring. It doesn’t seem like long before other universities follow.
12
13th March 2018
Features Picture: Aana D'silva, Yutian Lei and Dan Salliss
Concrete mapped the last 35 issues Sophie Bunce Deputy Editor To celebrate our 350th issue, team Concrete mapped our impact on campus over the last 26 years. Find our multimedia map on www.concreteonline.co.uk featuring videos, articles and UEA’s juiciest stories. The highlights include university wide practical jokes, Sting in the square and porn projected on Paston house - we certainly can’t fault students for their creativity. But our archives show, it might have something to do with students’
substantial bar tabs racked up at the SU. Concrete’s articles show that UEA has always committed to its nights out; we reported on £45k spent at the SU bar by long graduated freshers. We look at cockroach infestations, accommodation accidents and mysterious incidents across all of UEA’s campus - take a look at the map for the full picture. If the last 350 issues have taught us anything, it’s that UEA has always been wonderful wonderfully odd. Here’s to the next 350.
The Norfolk Terrace roof needs railings Concrete’s Jack Ashton
and Chloe H o w c r o f t took a look at, what I regard to be, the best accommodation on campus. The ziggurats are the iconic brutalist companion to the UEA campus. Students living there have long struggled against the lure of the their rooftops. Jack and Chloe highlight Concrete’s reporting on incidents
that ended students’ love affair with their unstable rooftops. Paston projection
House
porn
Jack Ashton and Chloe Howcroft reflected on Concrete’s report of porn projected on Paston House. The 20 minute projection eventually alerted the attention of staff, and as you can imagine, made a stir on campus. Concrete is, and has always been, committed to telling students what’s going on at UEA, but this was certainly a once in a lifetime story. The LCR’s gig history Tony Allen interviewed Gavin Hudson to talk the LCR’s gig history. UEA has seen some of the biggest stars on campus, including Taylor Swift and Ed Sheeran. Gavin
Hudson, who was a student at UEA in the early 80s, found a love of music embedded on campus. As Deputy Head of Venue management, Tony chatted with Gavin about what makes UEA a unique gig venue and his highlights from the past 30 years. Protest in the square Matt Nixon focuses on protest at UEA. In light of the current pension strikes, his analysis of “die ins,” placards and protest is particularly poignant. Check out the interactive map to see who held the banners and what they chanted for.
13
13th March 2018
Features
International Women’s Day International Women’s Day brings together global governments, women’s organisations, businesses and charities. With gender equality still causing problems in today’s culture, as the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report revealed that it will take 217 years to close the gap, it is more important than ever to strive for change. The much anticipated hashtag, #PressforProgress, argues that there is a strong call-to-action to press forward and progress gender
parity. The day aims to motivate and unite colleagues and communities to think, act and be gender inclusive. Broadcast and Digital Journalism student, Amanda Zheng said, “International Women’s Day should commemorate the movement for women’s rights. But in China it exists in another form and departs from its original meaning. Gender inequality still has a long way to go.” This day is socially and historically significant because it observes the initial observance of a Woman’s Day in New York on February 28, 1909, organised by the Socialist Party of America. Inspired by the demonstration
in New York a year later, at the International Women’s Conference in Copenhagen, Socialist representatives proposed for there to be a day marked in honour of women worldwide. Delegates agreed that an International day should be formed as part of a strategy to promote equal rights for women and women’s suffrage. It was celebrated for the first time in Austria, Denmark, Germany and Switzerland on March 19, 1911. In 1913, two years later, it was proposed that the date be moved to March 8. It has been celebrated on this day ever since. Striving to achieve gender equality, this day
recognises that the gender pay gap still exists, where women earn up to 14 percent less than men. In terms of women fending off men’s sexual advances, last year saw the rise of the #MeToo movement, where women from all over the world came forward to share their story of sexual harassment. The hashtag trended worldwide after a call to action from actress Alyssa Milano, in the wake of sexual assault allegations against Hollywood mogul Harvey Weinstein spanning decades. Posting on Twitter, Alyssa called for those affected to post “Me Too” giving people a sense of the magnitude of
the problem. More than two dozen women, amongst them actresses Angelina Jolie and Gwyneth Paltrow, have made accusations against Weinstein including rape and sexual assault. The hashtag in the movement marks the significance of women who have been sexually harassed by someone. Men have also been using the hashtag to show support to women and reveal their own incidents of abuse too. Last week thousands of women gathered as part of a nationwide protest, “Day Without a Woman”, at the International Women’s Day in Central Park on March 8 in New York City.
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Beth Papworth Features Writer
Advice from Concrete’s women in media
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FINANCE 14
13th March 2018
Trump’s tariffs hit steel production Will Richardson Senior Finance Writer u s e d to restrict imports on input materials for over 30 years. Simon Lester, expert in WTO law, argues: “If the U.S. can impose these tariffs on steel and alumin[i]um on the basis of ‘national security,’ someone else is sure to try for tariffs on food, or clothing, or various other products on the same basis.”
“This will put increasing pressure on manufactures and consumers”
Flouting WTO rules with such a loophole could deal a significant a n d
Co-Op to be investigated
detrimental blow to global free trade. Trump’s decision to impose steel and aluminium tariffs at a rate of 25 percent and 10 percent respectively would heavily impact close allies Canada, South Korea, and the EU. However, since then Trump has clarified he is open to exempt Canada and Mexico as part of the NAFTA renegotiations, stating: “We have to protect & build our Steel and Aluminium Industries while at the same time showing great flexibility and cooperation toward those that are real friends and treat us fairly on both trade and the military.” He suggested other close allies could be exempt as he does not consider imports of their steel or aluminium to be a threat to national security. This follows EU threats to impose retaliatory tariffs on a 2.8bn list of over 100 US products. China has also suggested that it would retaliate with an
Co-Op will be investigated for its treatment of its suppliers, following accusations from the Groceries Code Adjudicator that it had fallen short of industry standards. The Co-Op has already paid around 110 suppliers a total of £500,000 to try and make amends. It has been accused of charging suppliers for product assessments.
John Lewis cuts bonuses as profits fall “appropriate and necessary response,” but according to China’s Foreign Minister, China and the US should strive to be partners rather than rivals. The consequences of the US tariffs are complex. While most steel producers in the US will benefit from US protectionism which in turn will save jobs, some steel manufacturers will suffer, such as those that import steel to refine it before selling it on to other manufacturers (e.g. car or aeroplane manufacturers). This will put increasing pressure on those manufactures and the consumers who buy their goods. While Trump claimed “trade wars are good, and easy to win” many economists disagree and a Quinnipiac University poll said close to two thirds of the US disagree too.
KFC’s flip-flop on suppliers It’s been a nightmare few weeks for the popular chicken fast food restaurant KFC.
“It’s not clear yet what the damage has been to KFC’s revenue, but it can’t be good news” After switching suppliers for their chicken, from Bidvest to DHL, there were complications at one of the warehouses they use to store their chicken.
Mass queues of lorries, full of chicken, formed at the warehouse, which is located near Rugby. The issue was that there were staff shortages at the warehouse, and the staff that were there had not been fully trained. The result of the queues was tonnes of chicken spoiled, making it unsuitable for sale in KFC stores. A f t e r hundreds of KFC outlets were forced to close due to shortages in chicken, many of the company’s workers were asked to take their holiday, and customers were left with either no, or a very limited, menu. The company has now
decided to switch some of their logistics supply back to Bidvest, their original supplier. Bidvest will now supply 350 of KFC’s 900 restaurants. Bidvest has promised KFC a ‘seamless return’ to the
Carillion contracts deal fails Following the announcement that a number of Carillion contracts had been purchased by BGIS, which would have secured 2,500 jobs, the Canadian company has pulled out of the deal. It would have been able to provide services to transport, emergency services and hospitals, amongst other services.
Gender pay gap worst in
most recent examples of this is when Wetherspoons, the UK pub chain, had to pull all of their steaks off of the menu following a so called ‘supplier failure’. The failure was the suppliers failure to meet several food hygene standards. The chaos surrounding drastic changes in suppliers has caused concern for some, who worry that Brexit, and the complications for firms that come with it, may cause a great deal of damage to the UK economy. Certainly, if there are similar closures as UK businesses adapt to changes, there may be serious damage to the economy. It’s not clear yet what the damage has been to KFC’s revenue, but it can’t be good news for the company’s bottom line. To see the real impact, we will have to wait for them to announce their annual performance.
finance sector National Women’s’ Day came and went on 8th March, and the issues surrounding the gender pay gap continue to exist. They are most prevalent in the finance sector, with Barclays posting an average gender pay gap of 48 percent, climbing to 79 percent for bonuses. Similar figures are being seen in banks like RBS and Lloyds. The main cause for this is the lack of women in senior roles in these banks.
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Matt Denton Finance Editor
The John Lewis Partnership, which also owns Waitrose and a chain of department stores, has cut its staff bonus to the lowest level in 64 years after annual profits plunged by 77 percent. The company said 85,000 staff, known as partners because they jointly own the business, would receive a bonus equivalent to 5 percent of annual pay.
s u p p l y, which would take a lot of pressure off the Rugby warehouse. Similar issues with suppliers have caused issues in the past for other UK businesses. One of the
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Matt Denton
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On 1 March, US President Donald Trump announced that he will impose tariffs on steel and aluminium imports to protect domestic producers. This decision follows the U.S. Commerce Department’s report last month which concluded that imports of both aluminium and steel are a national security threat. The US, by imposing trade restrictions, would potentially violate obligations that they agreed to as a World Trade Organisation (WTO) member. The legality of the new trade restrictions relies on the obscure ‘Section 232’ of the ‘Trade Expansion Act of 1962’ which makes allowances for reasons of national defence and has not been
Gage Skidmore, Pixabay
The Finance Roundup
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13th March 2018
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Highstreets in decline Charlotte Manning Finance Writer
High street retailers and businesses all across the UK have been closing down in the past few months. With retailers such as Toys R Us and Maplin announcing on the same day that they had fallen into administration, and a host of other high street favourites such as Prezzo, New Look and Marks and Spencer announcing store closures, just what has gone wrong on the UK high street? In the past decade, a host of big names have called it a day on the UK high streets and these are just the latest in a long line to go bust. The trends causing this, of course, are all too familiar. With the online shopping market becoming so huge, the high street stores have really struggled in the past few years, and many are finding their models which traditionally were a success, are now becoming unsustainable with the growing online market, where one in five pounds are now being spent. Simon Thomas of Moorfields Advisory, the administrators of Toys R Us, commented on their bleak future and what it was down to. He said: “We’ve got very large stores which are fairly impersonal. People are looking now to have a
better shopping experience, and we restaurant chains between 2010-16 were unable to deliver that.” “no matter what the cost,” resulting He said they were unlikely to be in too many restaurants on the high saved as its business model “isn’t streets. This, coupled with rising what consumers really want now.” rent costs, have made this model He added: “On top of all that unsustainable for many restaurant we have the online problem … chains, as multiple chains plan to people can go into our shop, look sell a number off in order to save at something, then look at an them from collapsing. alternative and buy it at a The issue of declining cheaper price.” It is high streets has also clear that retailers been blamed lacking an online on squeezed p r e s e n c e incomes, and are really a near 15 struggling percent fall to maintain of the pound their brands after Brexit. in the This has same way, had a huge especially impact on w h e n inflation, cheaper pushing it products over three are so easily p e r c e n t , accessible on hinting Britons Acc78, Wikimedia online giants have had to cut such as Amazon. down on their However, it isn’t spending as a result of just retailers that have less disposable income. faced a struggle, with popular While 2018 will continue to be a Italian eatery Prezzo announcing tough year for retailers, many high closures to 94 of their restaurants, street retailers, such as clothing and both Jamie’s Italian and Byron store Primark and sandwich shop also shutting the doors of some of Subway, are thriving and continuing their locations. to expand across the country. The Financial Times labelled These examples are assuring to this the result of the “casual- consumers that as one shop door dining crunch” blamed on the closes, another one will assumingly rapid expansion that occurred of open.
Bitcoin shareholders worried over warnings George Goldberg Finance Writer The governor of the Bank of England (BoE) has called for elements of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies to be regulated to tackle illegal activity. In a speech made earlier this month, Mark Carney highlighted how cryptocurrencies fail at fulfilling the roles of money and act more like assets, exhibiting the “classic hallmarks of bubbles.” He made the comments at the inaugural student-run Scottish Economics Conference while speaking on the future of money and how developments in payment technologies could transform the UK economy. “The time has come to hold the crypto-asset ecosystem to the same standards as the rest of the financial system,” Mr Carney said. “Being part of the financial system brings enormous privileges, but with them great responsibilities.” He downplayed the idea of following other countries in banning cryptocurrencies outright because of their promises to bring greater efficiency, reliability and flexibility of payments. “Bringing crypto-assets into the regulatory tent could potentially catalyse innovations to serve the
public better,” Carney proposed. The BoE’s Financial Policy Committee, which ensures confidence in financial institutions, is currently investigating the risks posed to UK financial stability by cryptocurrencies. Mr Carney said, “at present, in my view, crypto-assets do not appear to pose material risks to financial stability. This is in part because they are small relative to the financial system.”
“The classic hallmarks of bubbles”
The governor said the BoE is considering the creation of a central bank digital currency (CBDC), but that such developments will not happen for some time yet. “There are also broader societal questions (that others would need to answer) such as how society balances privacy rights with the extent to which the information in a CBDC could be used to fight terrorism and economic crime.” Mr Carney continued, saying that “A CBDC shouldn’t be a solution in search of a problem or an effort of central bankers to be down with the kids.”
more elections coming soon uea.su
su Vecteezy
Comment
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13th March 2018
Four alternatives to strike compensation Jack Ashton Comment Editor Eight hundred and seventeen pounds and eighty-five pence. By adding up module credits, lectures missed and lectures per week, apparently, that’s how much the university owes me in compensation. It’s probably not taking into account my astronomically low attendance, or the fact that the entirety of the £9000 we pay isn’t spent on tuition fees, but hey, that hasn’t stopped over 70,000 students writing to their university for compensation. We’re well into the strikes now, strikes which I fully support. Students cannot be passive consumers of a product, when academic staff have seen their real wages fall 16 percent since 2009, stand to lose £10,000 a year on their pensions, all while facing serious dips in mental health levels and heightened job stress- I’m happy for them to strike at my expense. But universities aren’t the devil, it’s not like Cruela De Ville is somewhere in a tower slashing Mark from PPL’s pension, but there’s a billions strong deficit in the university budget that needs to be plugged somehow, but not with the ripped up scrapings of our lecturers pensions. But, as I said, we’re well into the strikes now, so you’re probably bored of hearing preachy students shouting about them, so I’m here to tell you that instead of pressuring universities to open up the deficit even more, b y
spending money that could be spent on pensions compensating you, here’s four things you can do while the strikes are on: Write to your Vice Chancellor Strikes stop when one of three things happen. One side gives up, the other side gives up, or the sides reach a compromise. P u b l i c opinion is a massive factor in this: if one side is seen to look worse than the other they’re likely to be the one to buckle (This has been ‘Strikes 101’ by yours truly). Writing to your Vice Chancellor to pressure them to negotiate is a key part in this. Imagine you’ve not checked your Facebook in eight days and you have hundreds of messages (I’ve heard this happens), writing to our VC will make him feel like that, except he’ll be less Gossip Girl and more Ron Weasley getting the Howler in Harry Potter. “DAVID RICHARDSON… HOW DARE YOU…..” Talk to your fellow
students about the strikes For those of you who aren’t lucky enough to live with me, I’m insufferable at home. The door shuts and it’s all “Guys! Guys! have you seen *current affair of the day*,” and then all “Jack! Jack! Shut the fuck up.” But within t h o s e sentences s o m e information must go through, because a few days later my housemates seem to know a little bit more. This is what needs to be done with the strikes, talk to your mates, get them on board, make yourself insufferable. Start your own study group. You remember back in sixth form when you were looking at the UEA prospectus and all those lovely pictures of people socialising and laughing over work? You surely got here and were disappointed with the way expectations w e r e
shattered by the 3am sobs in the library. But this is your chance. Message your seminar group and meet up separately, do it off campus so you don’t cross the picket line, but go round to each other’s house, chat about how awful that book you had to read this week was, compare notes on that politics essay you can’t do or figure out that extra particle wave theorem or thermodynamic law that was mentioned in your physics class (I’ve never been to a physics class). Do all that work you said you were going to do. You said you’d do it. Last New Year’s resolution, this New Year’s resolution, the next New Year’s resolution- “get ahead of work.” At the risk of sounding like a budgeted Nike advert crossed with a motivational speaker- do it. Make that timetable you were going to, read ahead on that module, write up those lecture notes, plan that essay. It’d be fitting if you’re at your most productive to counter the university when it’s at its least. There you go, four things. Support your striking lecturers with one, support your striking lecturers with four. Just because the university has come to a standstill doesn’t mean you have too. But bear in mind that no one wants the strikes, so doing your bit to bring them to an end while trying to keep above water while they’re on is our best chance- but don’t throw the universitiy’s budget, or the lecturers budget under the bus when doing so. SolidarityForever.
Photos: (T-B) Cherwell, Wikimedia; Matt Nixon
Why I didn’t vote in the SU elections Andrew Bell Comment Writer I’m of the firm belief that voting in the SU elections will make no palpable difference. The candidates themselves undoubtedly want to work hard and improve our university experience, but there are a myriad of reasons why I, along with many other students, doubt the efficacy of student politics in producing tangible change. Firstly, a range of the 16 different positions ultimately had only one candidate to vote for including, in the greatest irony, the full time, salaried position of Campaigns and Democracy Officer. If students aren’t even disposed to stand as candidates in any substantial number, it’s a wonder anyone expects the student body at large to be inclined to vote
en masse. The limited number of candidates who do stand for election provide manifestos that overlap significantly. Take just one role: non-portfolio officer, which had six candidates for four available positions. Every candidate but one promised to improve mental health services on campus, half pledged to lower prices in the SU shop and half commit to making the SU more accountable. These issues urgently need addressing, but the exact same promises have been ubiquitous in student manifestos for years across multiple positions and, if anything, the problems have only worsened. Many of us hold a common fallacy that elections are the sole method of generating political change and realising democratic rights. But look no further than
the ongoing lecturer strikes to notice that far more people, no matter their views, can be engaged in political debates through campaigning and industrial action than through receiving £1.50 off your A-list ticket, a paltry b e n e f i t of voting. A d m i t t e d l y, some of the turnout-based rewards are appealing. But the success of these ideas must be measured in the effect they have on turnout, which is infamously abysmal.
There are many issues facing us at university that our union desperately needs to address, but the elections simply do not offer the solutions. However, there are other ways to make a difference. Start a campaign on an issue that matters to you, fundraise for a charitable cause, or join a group that seeks to make a positive change in our community. We students have a voice, but it is not limited to just our elections.
Floor 01 vs Floor 3 study rooms
Saoirse SmithHogan on Floor 01’s flexibility 01 – the Juan. Not only can you enjoy the beautiful view of other people working very hard, but you can also enjoy the equally exquisite view of the back of Suffolk Terrace. Inside, students have a choice of study areas. You can either study alone, with the teal and brick coloured study pods available. Or, like me, if you find comfort in the art of procrastination, there are rows upon rows of tables available for you and your friends to use for ‘studying.’ Moreover, the spaciousness of 01 means that you can also send a sly wave and a cheeky wink to a friend across the room. Alternatively, if you feel you deserve a break after a long session of doing nothing, then there is a large group study space for your enjoyment. Having been in there a few times, I can tell you all about one student’s weird affection for their grandmother, and another student’s problem of ‘too many’ boys on the go. Gossiping is serious work, right?
Joel Shelley argues for the solace of Floor 3 Why work anywhere other than the comfort of an independent study room? While in other parts of the library people will shoot daggers as you munch on a packet of crisps, if you book your own room you can enjoy your Tesco meal deal in peace. Go make the climb to floor 3 to experience the tranquillity of being so far away from all those riotous locales below. In your cosy little cubicle you also won’t get distracted by watching someone walk up and down an aisle ten times in search of a deceptive book. Instead, from your vantage point you get the best view of all the doggos as they run around by the lake—much better, right? With plenty of space, a hook for your coat, and a guaranteed socket to charge your laptop, nowhere in the library is more civilised than a floor 3 independent study room.
Image: Kinversam, Wikimedia
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13th March 2018
Sophie Bunce: this article is free Plant based power is the way forward
Giorgia Rose Comment Writer
You can read this article for free. You get me, for no fee. It’s a sweet deal, and as Concrete’s a free student newspaper, it’s also a fair deal. Yet, profiting publications could charge you for this article and also refuse to pay me. Funny that. The word ‘fair’ is swatted away the older you get and the more suits you own, as age excuses inadequacy. We’ve all been told that “life’s not fair.” “If you’re upset about something you should grow up and get over it.” But that passive, hopeless attitude sculpted an industry where writers are underpaid and undervalued. An industry of rising paywalls without raising pay. Even in an unfair world - that’s too much. The discussion of unpaid writers has long surrounded the struggling
artist cliche and perpetuated by said struggling artists, but really, this one is for the economists. They would tell you the way we operate as a society is not conducive to movement between social classes or tax brackets. Social mobility suffers at the hand of big business and in this instance, businesses big enough to pay for glossy covers but not their contributors. It’s convenient for writers’ pay to be viewed as - if they’re willing to give it away then what’s the problem? The problem is, it reinforces the destructive culture we have of working more to get less, staying at desks over the weekend to get ahead and driving young minds into the ground before they even learn there’s another way.
Lib Dems: done and dusted or still fighting? C. E. Matthews Comment Writer It’s the Lib Dems’ 30th birthday! But sadly for them, they’re not the most popular of parties. According to PollBase, when founded they sat at 12 percent in the polls, and are now at just 7 percent. Most politicians offer them placid compassion – a nod to their efforts, but acknowledgement of their continued troubles.
“It’s a 30th birthday to forget” After 30 years, you might wonder – what use do they have? Yet the Lib Dems remain a necessary alternative to Labour and the Conservatives. They are a refuge for voters disillusioned by the two main parties who do not wish to cast their vote for more radical options such as UKIP or the Greens. In addition their presence makes tactical voting possible. Instead of voting Labour in a constituency they are extremely unlikely to win,
you can vote against, let’s say, the Conservatives, by voting for the Lib Dems. There is also a more important reason for why the Lib Dems are useful. They are not just political cannon fodder or a centrist alternative. Rather, owing to how small they are they can propose policies Labour and the Conservatives cannot. Along with other small parties ,the Lib Dems tackle issues more popular parties daren’t address. They pushed for House of Lords reform, and scuppered proposed boundary changes when the Conservatives abandoned the Lords reform they desired. Of course, whether or not you agree with the outcome, another small party successful in not only asking a question but also leading it to a political end was UKIP with their effective Brexit agenda. For the Lib Dems it’s a 30th birthday to forget. However, although weak, the party remains an important addition to Britain’s political landscape. We shouldn’t dismiss smaller parties. They might not be overly popular, but they are both useful and necessary.
It means the same people get ahead at the same people’s expense. It makes social mobility a pipe dream. Despite publications using paywalls, asking readers to pay for online content, the cashless cycle continues. While they profit off of contributors, offering money to cover costs is the very least they could do. It isn’t fair - it’s obvious. Writers provide a service and if they demand the service, they have to pay for it. You can read this as many times as you want. Memorise it if you fancy. Print it off, stick it to your wall and read it aloud every night before you go to sleep. It’s my pleasure. But make the most of it, because when I make it to the paywall - it’s going to cost you.
7 March marked ‘Plant Power Day’: an event dedicated to the celebration of eating fruits and vegetables, endorsed by plantbased superpower, Alpro. The idea is to promote vegetarian diets by encouraging people to share photos of their meat-free meals on social media. And you may say people hardly need another excuse to post photos of their food on the gram, but I think this is exactly the kind of positive exposure vegetarianism needs. When you search #plantbased on Instagram, the feed is full of beautifully crafted Buddha bowls and complex courgetti salads, made by people whose personal brand is dependent on a semi-selfrighteous hippie vegan aesthetic. But now, finally, we have a day where normal people can share their normal v e g g i e m e a l s . If people see what vegetarians realistically eat on a day to day basis – jacket
potatoes and beans, pasta and tomato sauce, peanut butter and porridge – the whole movement becomes much less intimidating. It’s unrealistic for every meal to be #foodporn. Since the spread of information on the terrible conditions in factory farms and the devastating effects industrialised farming has on the environment, it’s become common knowledge that the world eventually needs to give up meat, dairy and eggs. So, this Plant Power Day, let’s be inspired to at least cut back. It takes no time to replace the mince in a spag bol with lentils, or to put almond milk in your tea instead of dairy. It’s so simple to make these changes, but the effects are huge.
Cancer Research UK are not fat shaming Sam O’Dell Comment Writer In the wise words of the late great Freddie Mercury: “Fat bottomed girls make the rockin’ world go round” a statement that is without hyperbole, fact - because there’s not a damn thing wrong with being thicc. But another fact is that obesity does increase the risk of cancer. And after the recent c a n c e r research backlash its evident we don’t understand what ‘fat’ really is. F a t shaming is real because b e y o n d everything else – it sells. The insecurity elicited from advertisements of the idolised image of the skinny woman or muscular man makes us strive for that which is artificial and unattainable - resulting in all
manner of mental health issues and stigmatisation. But I don’t think the advertisement in question is guilty of that fat shaming – although it is ineffective. Amidst reports that *shudder* “millenials” are going to be the most obese generation yet; it seems to me that portraying obesity as the scary boogieman is just… lazy.
We start at the end point when instead there should be greater focus on the key to any kind of health, whether that be mental or physical, which is balance - being
unhealthy has less to do with weight than it does the delicious greasy stuff we put inside ourselves and the absence of exercise. The line medicine draws is ultimately arbitrary - just look at sumo wrestlers – obese, yet in good health. But cancer research isn’t exactly making an advert aimed at sumo wrestlers. T h e y have a responsibility to let people know the facts, but shock tactics only serve to desensitise us. Is it lazy? Yes. Do those chips look nice? Yes. But is it fat shaming? I’m inclined to say no. And it’s naïve to derail the evidence to support the increased risk of cancer associated with obesity even if our understanding of it is as unclear as ever.
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13th March 2018
Science
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Fry helps fight prostate cancer stigma Beth Papworth Science Editor A spotlight has been thrown onto prostate cancer after Stephen Fry, known by many for his acting, writing, and presenting careers, made public his own experiences with the illness. Prostate cancer is the third biggest cancer killer in the country. Stephen Fry announced that he had been diagnosed with prostate cancer by sharing the news in a short video posted on his Youtube page. He said: “For the last two months I’ve been in the throes of a rather unwelcome and unexpected adventure.” After visiting his doctor for a flu jab, a full health check revealed his prostate specific antigen (PSA) levels were high. An MRA scan confirmed that he had cancer. In battling his disease, Fry had surgery and the doctors were successfully able to remove the prostate and eleven lymph nodes. Following further medical examination, it turned out that he had a Gleason score of nine, and considering ten is the maximum, this highlighted its aggressive spreading. Fry decided to talk about his diagnosis because rumours had started to spread. He said: “Cancer is a word that rings in your head. ‘I’ve got cancer,’ I kept saying to myself. ‘Good heavens. You’re not supposed to get cancer.’ I know it’s a cliché, but you don’t think it’s going to happen to you. Cancer is something that happens to other people.” Fry believes that the early intervention saved his life and urges men of a certain age to get their PSA levels checked. “I’m bloody lucky to be surrounded by such wonderful people, and I’m lucky to have an immune system, because that’s the real hero,” he added. Prostate Cancer UK thanked Fry for “speaking about his personal experience” and emphasised the
importance of raising awareness of the disease. Chief Executive at Prostate Cancer UK, Angela Culhane, said: “Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men. There are over 47,000 men in the UK who, like Stephen Fry, are diagnosed with prostate cancer every year. However, despite the numbers it’s a disease that, due to its nature, is often swept under the carpet.
“Cancer is a word that rings in your head” “We salute Stephen for his courage in speaking out about his personal experience and wish him all the very best for his recovery.” The Norfolk organisation Think Pink & Blue, who have been fundraising for a UEA research project into the cancer, has been supported by Fry. Last month, a Gala dinner was held to raise money for UEA’s work and a study into ovarian cancer at the University of Cambridge. Funding for ovarian and prostate cancer research is far lower than what goes into breast cancer research, prompting charities’ renewed awareness and funding campaigns. Professor Colin Cooper, the lead researcher in UEA’s research, told the Eastern Daily Press diagnosing the cancer was challenging. He said: “Half a million men across North America and Europe are diagnosed with cancer each year. For a quarter of those men you can tell at the time of diagnosis that it’s going to be an aggressive form. For another quarter, you can tell that it is unlikely to cause any clinical symptoms. “The problem is, there are a quarter of a million men in the middle who you can’t decipher as having an aggressive or nonaggressive form.”
Photo: Christian Payne, Flickr
Spotted from space: danger penguins Alex Millard Senior Science Reporter
Scientists accidentally stumbled upon one of the largest colonies of Adélie penguins when massive patches of their poop, or the more scientific and less giggle-inducing ‘guano’ showed up on pictures taken from space. The penguins are situated on the Danger Islands: small rocky peninsulas on the northerly point of the Antarctic. The islands are notoriously hard to get to, hence their ominous name, which is part of the reason scientists haven’t found this super-colony of over 1.5 million birds before. Dr Tom Hart, team member
from Oxford University admits that this was ‘a classic case of finding something where no-one really looked’. After receiving sharper images from the American Landsat spacecraft, scientists decided that the treacherous journey would be worth their while and sent a team out to count the colony properly. The most effective counting technique was to deploy drones, taking pictures every second, which were then stitched together to form the larger picture of the colony as a whole. This method also allows both 2D and 3D imaging. The colony was so big that the team found they were not able to count them by hand and employed software to do the actual
counting, with results showing the islands supporting 751,527 pairs of Adélie penguins, the 3rd and 4th largest colonies in the world. These numbers have increased the region’s known abundance of Adélie penguins by a massive 70 percent. This research is important for scientists as it was believed that Adélie penguins were in decline. On the western side of the Antarctic peninsula, colonies were found to be decreasing; this is thought to be due to the reduction of sea-ice that host the penguin’s main prey, krill. A study published in 2016 reported that up to 60percent of the current habitat for these penguins, one of two true Antarctic species, may be
uninhabitable for them by the end of the century. The warming of the sea and melting of ice also brings higher rainfall, destroying nests, drowning eggs and freezing chicks to death. One particular colony near the US research hub Palmer Station saw declines of over 80 percent. However, the finding of this new super colony brings a silver lining ,showing that there are safe havens for these penguins that continue to host enough krill to support the massive numbers present. Though satellites have formed a massive part of finding and
investigating these new colonies, the next steps will involve the team getting their boots dirty on the island. Heather Lynch, biostatistician at Stony Brook University, New York, and head of the team, has revealed their next steps will involve collecting tissue and soil samples to reveal how long the penguins have lived on the island. She stated: “at the end of the day, we’re going to get the best data on the ground. We can’t just hang up our boots and do it all in space.”
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13th March 2018
Life on Mars?
Flood risk severe for millions in the US
Research published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences has claimed that life on Mars is very much possible, in light of discoveries made in the Atacama Desert. The desert, which can go decades without seeing rain, was believed to be barren of life and is the place on earth that most closely resembles the surface of Mars. Though some microbes had been found there in the past, it was believed they were not native to the area, but rather had been blown there from elsewhere. However, the new discoveries indicate that the microbes may indeed be native to the desert after all. Dr Schulze-Makuch and his team from Washington State University first ventured towards the Atacama in 2015, where, against all odds, they experienced wet weather. Once the showers subsided, the scientists discovered a huge spike in biological activity in the formerly barren soil. Further experimentation revealed a number of indigenous species of microbial life, adapted to live in the desert
More than 40 million Americans may be at risk of severe flooding. A study by the University of Bristol, published in Environmental Research Letters, used predictive methods to analyse the threat of river flooding over continental America. The findings exclude coastal areas, which could potentially add millions to an already steep figure. The findings are triple previous predictions shown in existing regulatory flood maps produced by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). This massive increase in predicted ‘at risk’ areas is due to a higher land coverage being studied, previously only 60 percent of the continental US was accounted for, and greater precision of analysis that has allowed the risk of flooding from smaller streams to be estimated. The predictions made in this paper correspond to the risk of Americans to a ‘100 year’ flood: a flooding event that has a one percent chance of occurring in any given year. It is crucial areas at risk of flooding are more accurately mapped and understood, with a “critical information gap” needing
Sean Bennett Science Writer
conditions that had until now been thought of as unsurvivable. When the team returned in 2016 and 2017, they saw that the microbes that had been brought to life by the rain were now returning to a kind of dormant state,
having been once again deprived of water. Dr Schulze-Makuch said: "In the past, researchers have found dying organisms near the surface and remnants of DNA but this is really the first time that anyone has been able to identify a persistent form of
life living in the soil of the Atacama Desert. “We believe these microbial communities can lay dormant for hundreds or even thousands of years in conditions very similar to what you would find on a planet like Mars and then come back to life when it rains.” “Our research tell[s] us that if life can persist in Earth’s driest environment there is a good chance it could be hanging in there on Mars in a similar fashion. “We know there is water frozen in the Martian soil and recent research strongly suggests nightly snowfalls and other increased moisture events near the surface. “If life ever evolved on Mars, our research suggests it could have found a subsurface niche beneath today's severely hyper-arid surface." Many breakthroughs regarding life on Mars have been made in recent years and this new information is no different. With mounting evidence that alien life is not as farfetched an idea as we may have thought, the question seems to be changing. It is no longer a question about if there is life, but when we will find it.
Troy Fielder Science Writer
to be filled. An acute awareness of areas at risk can lead to preventive measures being put into place; this would lead to any damage caused by extreme flooding to be lessened and the subsequent costs, economically and socially, to be reduced. The cost of floods on the US government is roughly $10 billion per year. As population sizes continue to grow, it will be of paramount importance that data is used to implement appropriate floodplain management schemes and to levy funding for developments that are well prepared for flooding potential. With correct management, floodplains can offer “high quality habitats for wildlife, … outstanding recreational opportunities for people, and [can help to] improve water quality,” says the paper’s coauthor Kris Johnson – this offers yet another incentive for improved management. Although this study seemingly offers a bleak outlook, it is important to remember, with the correct utilisation of information many of the negative impacts can be bypassed and some potentially positive and beneficial possibilities, that can result from flooding, can be brought to the fore. The onus is on those in power to employ this information before it is too late.
UEA researchers reveal mysterious marine molecules
Photo: Matt Nixon Beth Papworth Science Editor
UEA researchers have found a key gene for producing sulphur molecules. Dimethylsufoniopropionate (DMSP) are marine molecules which generate more than one billion tonnes annually by the process of marine phytoplankton (microscopic plant-like cells), seaweed and bacteria. Once marine microorganisms
break down DMSP, they release a climate-cooling gas called dimethysulfide (DMS). Doctor Jonathan Todd, a professor at the School of Biological Sciences, said: “DMS is a very important gas. “Across the world's oceans, seas and coasts, tens of millions of tonnes of it are released by microbes that live near plankton and marine plants, including seaweeds and some salt-marsh grasses.” He also added: “DMS is thought to affect the climate by creating cloud droplets that in turn reduce
the amount of sunlight reaching the ocean’s surface.
“These clouds are vital in the movement of sulphur from the oceans to land” “These same clouds are vital in
the movement of large amounts of sulphur from the oceans to land, making the production of DMSP and DMS a critical step in the global sulphur cycle.” Marine phytoplankton produces the majority of global DMSP. Genes involved in the production of DMSP in phytoplankton, as well as bacteria, will allow scientists to evaluate which organisms make DMSP in the marine environment. Scientists also aim to discover whether this influential molecule could affect future environmental changes, such as the warming of the
oceans due to climate change. Dr Todd said: “The identification of the DMSP synthesis genes in marine bacteria and phytoplankton allows us to evaluate for the first time which organisms produce DMSP in the environment.” PhD student, Beth Williams, was a major contributor to the research and found the discovery of the evolutionary link between bacterial and phytoplankton DSYB both surprising and interesting, as it indicated that the ability to synthesise DMSP through this pathway originated in bacteria.
13th March 2018
Travel
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Does colonialism affect tourism?
Photo: Karthiknanda, Wikimedia Megan Furr Travel Writer In answer to the question ‘why do people travel for history?’ I would argue the answer to be ‘why do people travel at all?’ It is impossible to fully appreciate a new place without first recognising the significance of its history; both the good and bad contribute to the make-up of a country's culture. Each country captures its own unique past through examples from memorialisation and architecture, museums and artefacts to the oral histories of the population. Young aristocrats had once travelled to other countries to
further their education, and thus the influence of travel is delicately intertwined with the history of the countries. No better example of this can be shown than through the impact of colonisation and occupation.
"Historical artefacts should be repatriated to their country of origin" This in turn points to the layers of history each country presents to the traveller. As in many colonised
countries, their history had been previously repressed, so you need to consider both pre-colonial and postcolonial history when you're visiting different monuments, museums and historical sites; after all - history is multidimensional. Further justification for implementing colonial history was used to glorify the socalled ‘superiority’ of European colonialists. Memorialisation has proved to be provocative in this area. In Singapore for example, the statue of Stamford Raffles, ‘modern Singapore’s founder,’ is still described as a ‘national icon’. In India, the remaining statue of Queen Victoria in Bangalore remains a source of political contention.
Colonial powers have obviously left their mark on these nations' histories, and we need to be aware of this when we're visiting these contries as tourists. The history of a country is further complicated when the coloniser appropriates and steals a nation’s history. This case has been argued by India over their claim for the Koh-i-Noor diamond and the Sultanganj Buddha. The Benin Sculptures were taken from the West African city by the British in 1897 and the acquisition of Indigenous Australian Art by British Museums are but a few examples of the complex moral effects of colonial rule. Indeed, this leads to the argument that historical artefacts should be repatriated to their
far cry from your average takeaway pizza back home. Italy is for sure the place to add to your list of countries to visit if you want to experience Italian food - it's best in its original home!
more familiar food in order to avoid any language barriers or mishaps, being adventurous enough to venture out to restaurants away from the main tourist areas can really pay off, as it can allow you to try something totally different to the kind of food you are used to. It is also likely to more closely reflect the eating habits of those local to the area. P l u s , even if it doesn’t work out entirely as planned and you end up accidentally ordering a live squid to your
country of origin; after all, cultural history is best preserved within its own country's borders and thus, cultural imperialism should remain in the past. Travelling to discover more about a nation’s history is an important cultural pursuit. The legacy of colonialism is a controversial part of a country's past. The effects of colonialism should be considered within a larger historic framework; they are only representative of a certain aspect of the country's past. Saying this, patriotic sentiment dictates that countries should be allowed to be proud of their precolonised history and challenge the acquisition of national artefacts by colonialist forces.
How to travel like a foodie Rosie Burgoyne Travel Writer
Whilst there are many reasons why people travel, for me personally, many of my travel experiences have been centred around food. Whether it be fond memories of developing a slight obsession with ‘Gateau Basque’ or ‘Basque cake’, a hybrid between a flaky shortbread and a custard tart, filled with almond flavored filling, whilst on holiday in the French Basque country growing up or, of more recent trips involving lengthy expeditions down cobbled streets across Europe in search of the best gelato in each new city; having new culinary experiences can be one of the best things about travelling.
Debates about whether or not all of these food experiences are entirely ‘authentic’ and actually represent the regional cuisine of each country aside, being able to sit outside on a warm summer’s evening at a street cafe enhances the all-round experience of trying new food even more. In cities like Barcelona, the multitude of tapas restaurants offering snack-sized portions of delicious dishes like patatas bravas to share with friends late into the night, provide a unique experience of eating out that simply cannot be replicated in the colder climate back in the UK. Even familiar foods like pizza can be better abroad. In Italy, the thinly stretched pizza cooked to perfection in a pizza oven and topped with fresh ingredients, are of course a
“Having new culinary experiences can be one of the best things about travelling” As much as it may be tempting when travelling to somewhere new to head straight to the typical tourist restaurants and hotspots serving
table, ( a s someone in my family once managed to do), at least you will have some good stories to tell when you return home! Photos: ponce photography. Pixabay
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13th March 2018
Travelling with an artist's eye Evangeline Stanford Travel Writer Millions of tourists are drawn to art galleries every year, whether that be the Louvre in Paris, the Van Gogh museum in Amsterdam or the National Portrait Gallery in London. Everyone has visited an art gallery at least once in their lifetime and many aim to incorporate art into every single one of their travel plans. Art is always a good reason to travel, especially if you’re an art enthusiast, and many people travel solely to experience art in another country. So, why should art be incorporated into your travel plans? Experiencing art is a great form of relaxation and meditation. Most people go on holiday to get a break from work or studying and so adding art into the mix is the perfect way to clear your mind and have effortless fun. Art is also renowned for inspiring creativity – and not
just for those who are aspiring artists! Seeing one of your favourite paintings in real life, or even just seeing a really famous painting, can make you feel fulfilled and content.
"Experiencing art is a great form of relaxation and meditation" Now, I’m not saying art should dictate your travel plans – unless, of course, you absolutely love art and want to experience as much as you can (which, let me just say, sounds amazing!) – but I think it’s definitely important to incorporate it into your travel in some way. Some of the most popular holiday destinations have art right at the centre. It i s
no secret that Paris is one of the most popular city breaks in Europe and it is no coincidence that it is also home to some of the most famous art in the world – the Louvre, which houses the Mona Lisa, and the Musée d’Orsay, which holds the largest collection of impressionist paintings. And if you need any more prompting, admission to art galleries is often free or discounted for students! Art can be incorporated into your travel plans in many different ways, because I know art galleries aren’t everyone’s idea of a fun a n d
exciting holiday. Even the Berlin Wall is now considered one of the most popular artistic attractions in Europe because of the spectacular display of art at the East Side Gallery, which is definitely worth a visit! Art gives you a clearer mind and a calmer outlook on life and so, it is always important to look for art in
every aspect of life or in every new city you visit.
Photo credit:Photo: cyuongdv, PaulPixabay Dufour
"There's some truth in every film"
Travel writer Tatjana Greciuk discusses making the silver screen come alive Have you ever felt inspired to visit places where the characters of your favourite movies lived their lives? Are you dreaming about transferring what you have seen on the screen to real life? Many film lovers go on adventures to places where popular stories were shot, and… feel disappointed. Stepping into Hogwarts does not make you a magician and all our dreams have been for nothing?
If you have ever watched Eat, Pray, Love with Julia Roberts and you want to try the best pizza in the world, your next destination is L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele. Note, buying bigger-size jeans guaranteed! The final destinations on our little tour are on the other side of the ocean. If you want to see the actual paradise of cinematography, go to America. Start in New York and catch a yellow taxi like Carrie Bradshaw, and drive to a place for the rich and powerful called the 21st club, where she had one of the most heart-breaking conversations with Mr. Big. You will also recognize this place from Wall Street. Remember, rich and powerful.
“Grab a sandwich at Katz’s, where When Harry met Sally was shot” Don't panic — there's some truth in every movie. So, let’s begin our little trip to those places that truly exist and see how they can affect the visitors. This might turn your life upside down, but actual Hogwarts does not exist. The mysterious building playing its role is located in England, known as Alnwick Castle. The scenes were shot mostly outside and then technified to create the image we see on the screen. There are no moving staircases, nor Chamber of Secrets, nor the Great Hall. And to reach the castle, you do not have to catch Hogwarts express from the platform 9¾.
“If you want to see the actual paradise of cinematography, go to America” Photo: Karen Roe, Flickr But there is also good news. You can walk through the corridors of School of Witchcraft and Wizardry if you visit Gloucester Cathedral in Gloucestershire, England. You will recognize those from the first second you step inside. The Great Hall does exist too! And students do go there! Not
young magicians of Hogwarts, but of Oxford University. There is no doubt they do some magic. The staircases can be found in the same spot, though they have not been spotted moving. You can wait though if you have a hope. Enough magic, enough North. Let’s go somewhere warmer. Warm
countries simply cannot disappoint people. If you go to Rome, remember to take a picture next to the Trevi Fountain. You might feel like Sylvia and Macello from La Dolce Vita, but do not wade into waters, please. There is no need to be arrested. Do not leave Italy without visiting the South.
Of course there is a less posh choice of lunch. Grab a sandwich at Katz’s, where When Harry met Sally was shot, featuring the iconic orgasm scene. Their table is marked, so no lies, they really have been there. If you're a couple, buy your fiancée a ring from Tiffany & Co on Fifth Avenue in honour of all teens who cried watching Breakfast at Tiffany’s.
Sport Murray back for Wimbledon
13th March 2018
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The British No1 says he wants to be back when he is “fit and ready to play”
Patrick Wiseman Sport Reporter Andy Murray will no longer be British No 1 come next Monday but the good news for the Scot is that he is on track to make his return to competition this summer.
“I’m going to take my time to make sure my rehab is done properly” Murray, who has be overtaken by his fellow Briton Kyle Edmund in the updated world rankings list, has been working hard on his fitness following the hip surgery he underwent in the first week of January. Britain’s Andy Murray is planning to return to the practice court towards the end of March and could be back in action before the grass-court season.
The 30-year-old has not June. It was after pulling out of his played a competitive match since By the time he lost intended comeback tournament Wimbledon last year. According to to Sam Querrey in in Brisbane in the first Flickr, Carine06. a source close to the former world the All England week of January and number one, the early stages of his Club quarterthen withdrawing rehabilitation are going well. f i n a l s , from the The former world No 1 is on M u r r a y Australian target to make his return to Open that competition during this he decided Flickr, Carine06 summer’s grass-court to have season, which starts surgery. at the beginning While it of June, before is possible Wi m b l e d o n that Murray begins on would be 2 July. fit to return H o w e v e r, at the French in the light Open, which of the good starts at the end progress of May, it may well he has been be that he will prefer making, there to focus his energies is a chance that on the grass-court season, he will return was in particularly as clay has always been even earlier than his most challenging surface in the that. considerable past. Murray’s return could provide Murray has pain and his a significant boost to the British not competed since attempts to return grass-court season as he is likely to Wimbledon last summer, having at last year’s US Open seek some competition in the buildfirst suffered a problem with his and this year’s Australian Open up to Wimbledon. right hip at the French Open in both ended in failure. The Aegon Championships at
Queen’s Club has been his regular build-up tournament before he heads for Wimbledon, but there will be additional opportunities to play on grass, such as the Challenger grass-court events early in June at Surbiton and Nottingham in the two weeks leading up to Queen’s Club. In the immediate aftermath of his operation in Melbourne, the three-time Grand Slam champion suggested he might be back on the practice court about now. But as he stressed in January, in a conference call with a group of British journalists from his hospital bed, he does not want to set himself rigid deadlines. “I’m not going to try to get back as quickly as I can,” said Murray. “And I’m going to take my time to make sure that the rehab is done properly, and make sure that the surgery is as successful as it can be.” Murray has been in confidential talks with the LTA about staging a new tournament this summer designed to aid his comeback to the grass-court season. It would be held at Loughborough University’s indoor hard courts.
Hamilton sets the pace at Barcelona Sophie Christian Sport Editor Lewis Hamilton is cautiously optimistic over how his new Mercedes car performed at Formula One’s opening test in Barcelona. He completed 69 laps and managed to set the fastest time of the week (1:19.333). The four-times world champion spent the first three days indoors due to the snow which prompted Hamilton to complain about the track, calling it a “waste of money”. This meant the grid’s ten teams completed 600 less laps in total for the opening week of this pre-season compared to 2017 due to snow and rain affecting four days of running. Hamilton was among the many who had his test one running affected by poor conditions, but with the weather forecasted to improve he commented: “Hopefully we’ll get plenty of running.” “Ultimately this week there was questions of whether or not we should be in Bahrain, where firstly the weather is always good and you can test all day long, so you can get a lot of testing done because the sun goes into the evening. “But I like being here in Barcelona. It’s a beautiful city so hopefully the good weather comes.” On Thursday Hamilton managed to get a feel for how his new ride,
the WO9, was performing as the track reached over 25C. He said: “I was really happy to get out, great to get on it,” he said. “To get a feel for the new car and so far it is positive. I’ve only had 60 laps but it definitely feels like a better car than last year.”
“I only had 60 laps but it definitely feels like a better car” Hamilton acknowledged the test marked the start of his goal to claim a fifth title. He commented: “My mindset is really about learning as much as we can and being as consistent and diligent as you can with the laps you do get, but of course this is all foundations, building blocks for the title fight.” Sebastien Vettel capitalised on the improved conditions by completing 120 laps. He was the third fastest racer – nine-tenths behind Hamilton. Vettel was enthusiastic to insist his rivals had the early advantage. He said: “I think Mercedes is the favourite. If we can be close, very close, closer than last year, that would be great, and then we see from there. It’s been a long time from here until the end of the season.”
13th March 2018
23
Daniel Cook comments on Chelsea’s defeat Anyone who watched Chelsea’s 1-0 loss to Manchester City last week, wished they hadn’t bothered. The game lacked intensity, prompting both commentators and football fans to label it “boring”, something which is not often associated with Premier League matches, especially those featuring sides in the top four.
“The most important thing is always going to be winning” On paper the match was set to be a juicy one, as runaway leaders Manchester City led by Pep Guadiola played host to last year’s Champions Chelsea. It was not to be. Antonio Conte clearly set out his side to play for a draw, with 5 players in defence and very little intention to attack, resulting in the London side not managing to conjure up even a single shot in the first 45 minutes. Many have criticised Chelsea’s seeming lack of desire, former Manchester United defender and now Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville for example, said after the game that he was “disgusted” by Conte’s team’s performance and claimed “These Chelsea players took a day
off, they took a rest.” It is easy to see why many football fans were angered by how the match played out. Football is no longer a cheap day out, once known as “The Working Man’s game”, however such is the money which surrounds the sport nowadays, it is difficult to feasibly continue to label it as such. Most Chelsea supporters paid well over £1,000 per season ticket to see their team play at Stamford Bridge every fortnight or so. When taking into account added extras and cost of travel which come with away games such as last week’s visit to Manchester, it is easy to see why some would expect more. With Manchester City so far ahead at the top of the Premier League, it is somewhat understandable that Conte would set up his side in a manner which would limit the chances for Aguero and co, while looking to score a goal on the counter. This evokes an interesting debate, not only in football but for fans of all sports worldwide, what’s more important: winning or being entertained? A similar scenario was presented to Southampton fans and their board last season. The south coast side finished a respectable 8th in the league, and runners up in the League Cup final to Manchester United, however this was not enough to keep their manager in a
0
1
Loss to Manchester Andrewi, Wikimedia job and Claude Puel was sacked at the season’s close.
“Football is no longer a cheap day out” The dismissal was labelled unfair by onlookers, with sports journalist Paul Doyle calling Puel “a victim of Southampton’s admirably unreasonable expectations.” That being said, a large proportion of Southampton fans it seems were glad to see the back of the now Leicester manager, such was the
nature of their team’s performances. Southampton now sit in 17th position, just a point outside of the relegation zone and with a realistic chance of going down. Clearly the ideal is both, an exciting team whose style enables them to pick up three points every week. This is something Manchester City fans had the pleasure of watching this season, with the two time Champions League winning coach Pep Guadiola, making it look easy. Though undoubtably, this is easier said than done and if only one is possible, an interesting debate arises as to which is more important for fans of sport.
As a football enthusiast, the most important thing is always going to be winning. However, without the supporters there would be no sport and managers would not be in a job. It is clear that fans are more than entitled to voice their opinion and demand to be entertained in return for handing over their hard earned money. Yet, no matter how “boring” Gary Southgate sets out his side to play this summer and how few goals they score, there is no doubt in that football fans across the country will be delighted if England were to somehow win the World Cup this summer.
say thank you to the staff who made a difference
the SU’s transforming education awards celebrate excellence in teaching, supervision, and support at UEA.
nominations open now
thank the people who deserve to be recognised:
uea.su/tea
nominations close at midnight on fri 16th mar
students transfo rming
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13th March 2018
Sport
UEA Ballet raise the barre
Camille Verrier Sport Reporter UEA Ballet showed they meant business, coming back from two dance competition weekends with three trophies. Alongside their partners in crime, UEA Dance Squad and UEA Tap, Ballet attended University of Liverpool’s dance competition on 24 February, and went back to University of Surrey the next weekend to also participate in their competition. Led by the incredible Mion Yu,
the advanced ballet team managed to secure 2nd place at Liverpool, while the intermediate team brought the house down and won the 1st place trophy in their category, with some near-perfect scores from the judges. Both teams fought valiantly at Surrey’s second annual competition, seeing a lot more adversity than last year, and the advanced ballet team scored a 2nd place trophy once again. Intermediate choreographers Beckie Goodall and myself saw some bumps in the road, having
to replace a dancer in December, and coping with long absences in rehearsals. However, after months of hard work, sweat and tears, the team dominated the Liverpool stage and won the intermediate ballet category. The advanced team themselves dealt with an injury after Christmas, and re-choreographed last minute, short of one dancer. However, Yu dealt with this brilliantly and revised her “Suite in A Major” to be even more spectacular than before. After a rough start on a slippery Liverpool stage, including a fall,
the team performed admirably and placed 2nd in a category of six entries. Both teams felt more at home the next weekend at Surrey, having attended last year and winning 1st place and best costume for the advanced and intermediate team respectively. Dancing to the Moonrise Kingdom soundtrack, the intermediates held their heads high as they competed against four other universities. But alas, the dance did not seem favourable to the judges this time. The advanced girls did UEA
proud as returning champions at Surrey and, after flawless fouéttes from Chloe Rowlatt, Ellie BokorIngram, Kelsey Fung, Holly Anderson and Mion Yu, another 2nd place trophy was well-deserved. As the amazingly fruitful dance competition season closes for UEA this year, both teams look forward to Derby Day and a favourable win against Essex. All dances will culminate to the UEA Dance Show on 29 April, with a final performance for all competing team, as well as a few other feature dances.
won the toss. At the start of the game we were missing one of our star players, Brian Lau, due to being held in a meeting. We started strong, getting the first score of the game with a tactical “Pull-play”, this is our go-to when Luke Harrison and Paulo Ferreira are on when receiving the Pull. However, Leicester had some skilful players and were quick to respond with some very efficient throws to their cutters and got three consecutive goals. It was then that Brian arrived which meant he could handle alongside Conor Davis and I could switch to be a cutter; this is our ideal formation. Thankfully, there wasn’t too much wind so we didn’t have to play anything too risky and we held possession of the disc v e r y well,
which led to us scoring some nice points and our defence was very tight so we didn’t leave them open or give them the deep throw. We brought it back from three points down, and by half-time we were up 8-7. Both teams wanted it so badly; there were some miraculous grabs throughout. Conor denied the opposition a goal by hitting the disc in the air, but had to chase after it and smack it another two times (a simple catch would have been too mundane) to prevent the other player from still getting to it. Leicester were looking a little
fatigued towards the end and resulted in us pulling ahead a little. However, they were still dangerous and we were also exhausted as everyone was putting in maximum effort.
endzone and would then make a mistake or be turned-over. Unfortunately, Leicester got the goal, making it 13-12 to UEA but because the difference is only by one point, the game continues and it is first to 14. We put on a relentless defence and forced them to turnover. We didn’t panic or force any risky opportunities, we played it safe and kept possession of the disc until the right throw was on and we scored to win us the game! Final score: 14-12 to UEA. That was my favourite game of the season: it was evenly matched, gorgeous throws, unbelievable catches and sheer determination from everyone. There were a couple of violations called about whether a player was in or not, but everything was discussed properly and respectfully. Great sportsmanship was displayed all round, which is what the spirit of this self-refereed sport is all about. Most Valuable player went to Paulo Ferreira (scored most of our goals), whilst Most Spirited player was awarded to Conor Davis (most motivational player and useful knowledge of the rules).
UEA Frisbee fly to the top of the league Vinny Mann Sport Reporter UEA Aye-Aye were playing at home so we had the slight advantage of having two subs, whereas Leicester had to “Ironman” the game with only seven players and no subs. Even with nine players we were going to struggle to play 70 minutes and keep up the intensity for the entirety of the match. This was always going to be a close game; both teams were on equal points in the league (UEA just ahead on point-difference), having both won against every team apart from Cambridge 1st.
“The intermediate team brought the house down and won 1st place” The Leicester captain and myself flipped a disc to decide who would be on offence first; thankfully we
“Both teams wanted it so badly; there were so miraculous grabs throughout” We were up 13-11 with ten minutes to go and the pace had slowed down, and the current point continued into overtime as each team w o u l d make it to the