Issue 44
Monday October 24th 2011
The Newspaper of Queen Mary Students’ Union
QM Students join in London Occupation
The UGM
A Barts perspective on the Union General Meeting.
Page 10
Life's A Riot A London Citizens’ investigation looks into the societal issues surrounding the August riots. Page 4
The Occupy movement reached London on Saturday October 15th and was joined by QM students. Image by Tom Stevenson.
Tom Stevenson Queen Mary students from the Socialist Workers Party joined thousands of protesters on October 15th as the City of London joined the global ‘Occupy’ movement. An estimated 3,000 people joined the demonstration in total and, nine days on, around 70 tents remain. In front of St. Paul’s Cathedral members of UK Uncut, Right to Work, and the Socialist Workers Party were joined by many new to activism to occupy the Lon-
don Stock Exchange. The protest took its inspiration from the international ‘Occupy’ movements that began with ‘Occupy Wall Street’ in the United States and seeks to imitate their success. The movement serves to demonstrate against the hoarding of wealth by the top 1% of society, giving rise to the slogan of ‘the 99%’. Ross Speer, a Queen Mary student who attended the protest, told QMessenger that he was very impressed with Occupy London. “It is an intensely democratic forum”, he said, “the question is,
where next?” The involvement of unions, he went on, “is encouraging, and the movement may feed into the November 30th strikes”. The demonstrators planned to set up tents in Paternoster Square, home of the London Stock Exchange (though in modern times purely a symbol of the financial sector), but were repelled early in the day by a police blockade after their private owners gained a preemptive injunction, closing the square to the public. At midday, the demonstrators assembled at the steps of St.
Paul’s Cathedral and marched on Paternoster Square, chanting, ‘we are the 99%’, but were prevented from entering by police, who used mounted officers, and supporting dog-units within the square. The demonstrators had reconvened at the steps of St. Paul’s by 1pm, and proceeded to hold a general assembly to organise the specifics of the occupation. They quickly developed a voting system based on hand signals, in emulation of the ‘Occupy Wall Street’ movement. Continued on page 3...
Fairtrade debate: Should choice lie with students?
QMessenger debates whether our student outlets should stock Fairtrade. Page 7
Researchers find E. coli on one in four phones Matthew TK Taylor Sixteen percent of phones are contaminated with bacteria originating from faecal matter, a Queen Mary study for Global Handwashing Day has shown. Researchers from Queen Mary’s School of Biological and
Chemical Sciences, in combination with The London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine and The Wellcome Trust, found that a staggering 92% of phones and 82% of hands were contaminated with bacteria, even though 95% of people, when asked, said they washed their hands regularly.
Dr. Ron Cutler, who led the research, said: “Our analysis revealed some interesting results from around the UK. While some cities did much better than others, the fact that E. coli was present on phones and hands in every location shows this is a nationwide problem. People may claim they wash
their hands regularly but the science shows otherwise.” Londoners were most likely, at 28%, to have the potentially-harmful bacteria E. coli on their hands. E. coli is associated with stomach infection, and a strain was associated with a fatal outbreak in Germany last June.
Experts believe there is a link between their findings and people not washing their hands after visiting the toilet. Each year worldwide, 3.5 million children under five years old die from pneumonia and diarrhoeal diseases, which can easily be prevented through proper hygiene.
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QMESSENGER MONDAY OCTOBER 24 2011
News Editorial Team: • Executive Editor - Sam Creighton vpcommunications@qmsu.org • Managing Editor - Caz Parra editor@qmessenger.co.uk • Sub-Editors - Robert Pritchard, Maria Sowter and Lauren Mason proof@qmessenger.co.uk •News Editors - Rosie Reynolds and Kaamil Ahmed news@qmessenger.co.uk • Comment Editors - Ross Speer and Kashmira Gander comment@qmessenger.co.uk • Satire Editors - Ben Richardson and Aaron Barber satire@qmessenger.co.uk • Sports and Societies Editors - Shafi Musaddique, Hollie Carter and Ashley Sweetman sport@qmessenger.co.uk • Photography Editors - Keeren Flora and Bethia Stone photography@qmessenger.co.uk
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The Occupy movement that started in Wall Street last month spread to other parts of the world this week with protests in cities around the world including London, Rome, Amman, Tokyo and Cape Town. Travellers and protesters have left the site of Dale Farm, in a ‘dignified walk out’ after bailiffs broke down the final barrier to the site.
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A man died during violent protests in Greece against austerity measures the government is trying to pass through, though the Greek government denied that he died as a result of the violence.
Vik Chechi, QM branch secretary of UNISON, has been suspended by the college from his role in the Centre of the Cell project.
Researchers at Queen Mary have said that despite worries about how mobile phone date is stored, global laws protect it.
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Leading Queen Mary Historian Peter Henessey is amongst the members of the House of Lords trying to block the government’s NHS reforms in the Lords.
run of 1,000 and costs £445 to print and deliver. Established in 2008, QMessenger is the free weekly newspaper of Queen Mary Students’ Union. We are proud of our editorial independence and endeavour to always hold the College, Union and external bodies to account and to provide the best news and analysis to the students of Queen Mary, University of London. QMessenger is created entirely by students and the publication retains all copyright of design, text, photographs and graphics, along with the individual contributor. Any views expressed in QMessenger section are those of the individual writer and do not necessarily reflect those of the paper, the editorial board, Queen Mary Students’ Union or Queen Mary, University of London.
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By Kaamil Ahmed Images by: iPhone 4 by superstrikertwo(Flickr) Greece protest by PIAZZA del POPOLO (Flickr) Shabkat Baraka (in Arabic) | B.R.Q (Flickr)
Israel and Hamas have agreed a historic prisoner swap, with Israel releasing more than 1000 Palestinian prisoners in return for Gilad Shalit, an Israeli soldier who was captured by Hamas in 2006.
Researchers at Queen Mary have discovered that traces of faeces can found on 92% of phones.
Apple shifted four millions new iPhones in the first three days since the new 4S model was released - at least five times more than previous Apple products.
A Letter to the Editor, re: Halls Stewards article
Dear Editor, In this digital age of ours it would be remiss Further to your article titled for us not to keep an eagle eye on our on- “We’re Exploited”: Stewards line presence.So,here are the best messag- Claim on QMessenger Issue 43, es tweeted @QMessenger this week. I would like the opportunity to respond to some of the points A lot of exclusives for raised in the article as they are @QMessenger this week and next! Stupotentially misleading. dent media has the The role of ‘Residential power! Assistant’ (RA’s - rather than ‘Halls Stewards’) is constantly evolving and bears no reference @QMessenger can we to the former role referred to not have a bloody picture of Gaddafi’s corpse please? by the source from 2007 - a job profile was supplied to the article’s writer. The role offers Great article on Facepaid work to QM students and book in this week’s @QMessenger opportunities to develop workbased skills.
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A fifth of universities are thinking about dropping their tution fees for next Autumn to an average of under £7,500 instead of the £9,000 being charged by most Universities
Muammar Gaddafi has been found dead as fighters from the ruling NTC finally took Gaddafi’s hometown of Sirte after weeks of fighting.
The training programme before the start of the academic year is paid at the standard rate and the RA’s receive free accommodation for this period. The rate of pay is based on the College pay frame work, currently 8.76 GBP per hour and there are opportunities to gain extra pay from working on show rounds, College Open Days and social events. A key requisite for the post is to recruit those who want to make a difference and enhance life within halls - not those looking for accommodation alone. The RA’s play a key role in the welfare of residents, as
we recognise some residents the name of the person may wish to approach an RA quoted, Suzanne Cantelo, her rather than a full time member tittle ‘Residential Support of staff in the first instance Manager’, reference to the role depending on the issue. ‘Residential Assistant’ and In terms of the requirement the department ‘Residential to work at Christmas, this is Services and Support’. something made clear during We look forward to this the recruitment and selection response being printed in stage - the College is now 365 order to balance the potential day operation and has a number for the misleading nature of of international students who the article published. are supported during this time of year by RA’s and regular Yours sincerely staff to ensure their needs are met when they are unable to Alexis Anna Lautenschlager return home. Deputy Director (Commercial Lastly, may I ask you to Services) Student Campus correct the errors in both Services
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QMESSENGER MONDAY OCTOBER 24 2011
News The Royal London looks to Who's ready for action? The East London merge with other hospitals Citizens Organisation plans for the year Rosie Reynolds Three major East London hospital trusts could be set to merge as part of a plan to cut administration costs and improve healthcare for residents. East London is one of the unhealthiest places to live in the UK – if one were to get on a Jubilee line train at Westminster and ride eastbound, the life expectancy for the residents living at each stop would decrease by a year until Canning Town. East Londoners are more likely to have strokes and heart attacks, and are more likely to develop diabetes. Tuberculosis, which was once eradicated in this country, is relatively commonplace. Cancer patients here die sooner than in any other place in the UK, and there are believed to be more cases of undiagnosed HIV here than anywhere else. It’s not all bad news – Newham is also the birth capital of the UK, with women having more children each than the national average. Health is clearly a big issue in East London. The proposal would see The Royal London, Newham Gener-
al and Whipps Cross hospitals managed under the same trust, as opposed to the three different ones they currently work under. This is one option, another would be to form a new trust from Newham General, Whipps Cross and Homerton hospitals. “This is all about better health and better healthcare for our patients and the people of east London,” said Barts and the London Chief Executive, Peter Morris. “We believe that there is a very strong case for removing the organisational barriers between us, integrating our clinical services, sharing our talent and our other assets, and driving ever higher quality across our patient services.” It is believed that breaking down the administrative barriers will also support research and accelerate training programmes. “We believe that in merging, we will be able to offer much better value for money for the patient and the public, and forge even stronger links between our specialist services and academic units at Barts, The Royal London and The London Chest with our Whipps Cross and Newham colleagues,” continued Morris.
Rosie Reynolds Who’s ready for action? Who’s ready to build relationships? This was the call to arms from London Citizens organisers at The East London Citizens Organisation (TELCO) Delegates Assembly on Wednesday. The meeting was called in order to ‘Ensure the Olympics Legacy for the People’, and intended to derive an agenda for the Citizens Mayoral Accountability Assembly on April 26. The meeting was chaired by Father Sean Connolly, a priest at the Catholic parish of St Stephen’s and St Nicholas’s in Manor Park, Gabriella Dadzie, a year 13 student at Our Lady’s Convent High School in Hackney and Jade Lee, Queen Mary student. TELCO is the East London branch of London Citizens, and the East London Community Land Trust was born of it. The Trust campaigns for permanently affordable housing in East London. The co-chairs for Tower Hamlets are Bethan Lant from St Mary’s and Captain Nick Coke from the Salvation Army.
At the start of the meeting there was a roll call, and institutions cheered loudly when their own names were announced. TELCO is now 65 members strong, with 13 of those institutions having joined within the last year. The first discussion of the meeting was over which proposals should be submitted to the mayoral candidates in April as part of East London’s social justice agenda, which has been described as a response to the riots of this summer. “Next summer we’re going to welcome the Olympics, and I see lots of people just shrugging their shoulders. I believe we have a real opportunity,” said Father Connolly. TELCO have been involved in listening campaigns, in which residents have been voicing their concerns and offering solutions. “We wanted experience-based ideas, not just anecdotal ones,” continued Connolly. The issue that residents voted of most concern to their community was jobs. Affordable housing was the second most important issue, with safety third and the Living Wage fourth. The Olympics came last.
TELCO have set up a Jobs Research Action Team, which has been working for three months to identify a specific set of issues for both employers and prospective employees to work with and take on board. They have also been organising work placements, partnering young talent with local businesses. “Jobs are a critical but complicated issue for Londoners,” said Connolly. TELCO have also been heavily involved in CitySafe, a campaign to tackle crime and fear of crime. Priscilla Bunin, a student at Our Lady’s Convent School, spoke out about the difference CitySafe has made. “I go to school in Hackney, but I live in Tottenham,” she said, “This summer was a difficult summer for me, my friends and my family”. She went on to explain that, for her, CitySafe is about trust, relationships, action and passion. Our Lady’s school has set up a scheme called Safe Havens, which encourages relationships between residents and shopkeepers. As part of Safe Havens, shopkeepers also have to agree that their shops can be used as shelter by those in danger.
Protestors occupy St Paul's, declaring that capitalism has failed
Tape streams between two lamposts as the pillars of St Paul’s become the home for protestors occupying the London Stock Exchange. Image by Matthew TK Talyor. ...Continued from page 1 The police started to form a kettle around the protesters at 1.30 pm, first blocking Newgate Road and then New Change Street to surround the demonstration. Though for the majority of the day it was possible to leave the kettle at one designated point, the police successfully prevented hundreds from joining the demonstration. Wikileaks founder Julian Assange was one of those held on New Change Street for over an hour. When he eventual-
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ly joined the demonstration, he surrounding the Cathedral was told the assembly that, “like all reopened. of you, I have had difficulty getQMessenger spoke to tent octing here today”. He went on to cupant Emily James, who said praise the ‘Occupy’ movement, that she joined the demonstradescribing it as a, “culmination, “to participate in the occution of dreams”, and an endeav- pation...and express solidarity our, “not about the destruction with” the international ‘Occupy’ of law, but the construction of movement. When asked how law”. long she planned to stay, Emily Throughout the day the poreplied, “as long as possible”. lice containment contracted, reAudrey, another tent occustricting the territory of the ocpant, said that she was there cupation. By 6pm, the protest “mainly because of the cuts, the was confined to the pavement problems in this country, but outside St. Paul’s and the road also [in] solidarity with all the
movements going on all around the world, like New York”. She also planned to stay “as long as possible”. Peter Tatchel, an LGBT campaigner and journalist, made famous by his attempt to place Robert Mugabe under citizens arrest, told QMessenger: ““Free market capitalism has failed us, and the world. Close to a thousand million people are hungry or malnourished - that’s a crime against humanity.” He argued that the introduction of the ‘Robin Hood Tax’, a levy on
financial transactions, would raise £100 billion a year, negating the need for the current public sector cuts. The occupation is still in place, with a makeshift kitchen, media centre and storage area now erected. St. Paul’s were originally supportive of the demonstration, and even called for a thinning of the police presence. On Thursday, however, they issued a public statement expressing their concern that the Cathedral’s visitors might suffer, and asking if it is “time to leave”.
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News
Who's ready for action? The East London Citizens Organisation meets with locals to plan for the year ahead Rosie Reynolds Community leaders in Tottenham launched their own enquiry into the riots this weekend in an attempt to analyse the events from a local perspective. The inquiry is set to last for six weeks and is run by the North London branch Mile End Road at night. Image by Nicobobinus (via Flikr) of LONDON Citizens. It is taking place at Tottenham Willow Primary School. It is has to be resolved before Town Hall and is working with also being overseen by advisers there is any progress is the an alliance of 40 civil society - Andy Hull from the Institute shooting of Mark Duggan,” he institutions including schools, for Public Policy Research, said. “I do not believe you can colleges, universities, churches, Tunde Okewale, a barrister, leave behind a major injustice mosques, synagogues, trade and Michael Kelly, Head of and an attempt by the British unions, social enterprises and Corporate Social Responsibilty authorities to cover up what voluntary groups. for KPMG. was an unnecessary death. I North London Citizens Commissioners are currently live in Tottenham Hale and I’ve have taken legal counsel hearing from nearby residents never been worried about gangs and financial advice over who were affected by the or threats to my life and limbs. how to run the inquiry, and riots, including victims of What does worry me is that the will publish a report early violence, and all members of police apparently have powers next year. The committee the public are welcome to make to wander around Tottenham is being chaired by eleven contributions. The inquiry Hale, stop a minicab and shoot commissioners selected for intends to produce a report dead the occupant who had no being influential and respected independent of the police and criminal record.” within the community. Among Haringey council. Derek Oppong posted on those are Symeon Brown, One local resident who spoke Twitter “At the citizens inquiry founder of Haringey Young out at the hearing was William into the Tottenham Riots. I feel People Empowered, and Dawn Spring, an active church like crying tears of joy. So much Ferdinand, headteacher of The member. “The one issue that inspirational testimonials.
[sic]” and family” and emphasis on However, the enquiry has friendly societies, charities and already attracted criticism. The “localism”, has been dubbed World Socialist website called as Labour’s equivalent of the the inquiry “an undemocratic Conservatives’ Big Society. stitch-up masquerading as Another is Phillip Blond, a the initiative of the people of known promoter of ‘Red Tottenham”, and implied that Toryism’. Some critics fear that the sole aim of the inquiry is to the inquiry will have an overly cover up the real reason for the right-wing political agenda. riots. The inquiry has also had Controversy has arisen rather a poor turn out so far, because the majority of the with only 60 people turning up eight Citizens UK trustees are and the majority of them being religious leaders. Among them from either a local church is James Purnell, a former group or the Peace and Justice Labour government minister society at a local sixth form and currently head of the Open college. Left project at the think tank If you would like to get Demos. Purnell is a supporter involved in the inquiry, please of ‘Blue Labour’, which, with contact Alvin Carpio: 020 7043 its philosophy of “flag, faith 9881.
Students speak out on college suspension of QM UNISON rep Ozzy Amir The suspension of the Queen Mary UNISON branch secretary has created heated discussion amongst students. Vikhas Chechi was suspended by Queen Mary pending an investigation last week and some students have alleged that the college is looking to dismis him. The action, taken on October 18th, has outraged UNISON and some student groups on campus. “I’ve been suspended on spurious allegations. There is a clear view to sack me because management wants to weaken the union and the anti-cuts campaign in the University which has united staff and students. Myself and other union activists have managed to reinvigorate the Unison branch.” said Chechi, “This is a classic attempt to decapitate and smash a fighting union branch to allow management to drive through significant cuts including over 100 redundancies at the same as
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Vik Chechi, QM UNISON Branch Secretary, has been suspended from work. Image courtesy of the Campaign to Reinstate Vik Chechi
students face a tripling of tuition fees. By disarming the union, this would be just the start of the attacks on staff and students alike.” Some students suspect that the motive behind the suspension lies in his activities as a member
of UNISON, which which they believe has seen an increase in activity both as a result of Chechi’s own involvement and as a response to a recent staff restructuring policy proposed by Queen Mary which would result in redundancies.
instance”. UNISON members have launched a campaign this week to fight the suspension and Chechi used the event page on Facebook to share the University’s reasoning about why he was suspended: “The official reasons I’ve been suspended is trumped up charges to do with attendance, sickness (medication laying on my desk was sadly handed to management) and ‘complaining’ on the behalf of other union members.” Chris Pearson, Director of Human Resources issued the following statement on the issue: “Queen Mary, University of London cannot discuss matters relating to the employment of individual members of staff. The University can however confirm that Mr Chechi is an elected Ross Speer, member of the representative of the Queen Socialist Worker Student Society Mary, University of London called the suspension “a crude Branch of UNISON and is not in attempt at union busting” adding any way barred from his role as that “it is clear management a representative of UNISON. He at Queen Mary is attempting therefore continues to enjoy the to break the resolve of unions, provisions in place for Trades specifically UNISON in this Union duties and activities.”
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News
Is QM distracted by Facebook?
A map of the networks between Facebook users all over the world. Image courtesy of V. Jhon
Christopher Smith Is Queen Mary distracted by Facebook? Probably. I’ll update my status, as a question, and find out. A new survey by technology giant Cisco says that nine out of ten British students are distracted by Facebook, Twitter or some other form of social media every hour. And should any Queen Mary student disagree? Social media, specifically Facebook, plays a key role at QM whether for sports, studying or socialising. The current Facebook group for Drapers Bar has nearly 4000 members. Its stretch across the social community at QM is immense and the network clearly has the power to spread events faster than we’ve ever imagined. Danny Hunter, a first year Law student, said “Facebook was key for meeting people in my flat and then getting to know whether the freshers pass was worth the money”. This essential nature is repeated by fellow Drama firstyear Suzy Watkinson, “living
off campus without Facebook ... you’d be fucked”. A key medium for socialising, freshers need social media for interaction. Yet it isn’t forgotten in later years. Social secretaries would have a hell of a time organising societal events without Facebook. It allows clear organisation of a club or society, allowing members of old and new to meet. To reflect this necessity of social media to run a healthy club, that the SU stipulates all clubs must run a Facebook and Twitter account to keep members informed. Groups on Facebook are used across all societies, and some classes, for students to interact and meet one another, asking questions and working together. Tying events to groups allows people to easily set up regular meetings and socials with familiar sets of people, and networks such as Facebook provide the perfect opportunity for this to happen. Researching local night life or businesses is also now something Facebook and Twitter are preferred for over the ubiquitious Google. Want to know the
cheapest place that’s not an absolute drug-den in Shoreditch? Want to know if that barbers is any good? Facebook and Twitter allow you to search and gain a genuine insight into the local area of QM. The level of personalisation that Facebook allows, given the wealth of information that it knows about you, allows for unparalleled amounts of customisation of data and targeted advertising towards you. Attended an event out in East London last night? Talked about it online? Facebook is ready to recommend a dozen new haunts for you, and urges you to ‘like’ where you’ve already been. Yet it’s not just a tool for socialising, social media can be used for a range of a resources outside of societies and nights out. Anna Jones, a third year Biologist, said, “Twitter is so key for finding future employers, especially in such a tough environment”. Whether it’s volunteering, placements or employment, sites like Twitter or LinkedIn can provide a gateway of connections that are not
available on traditional websites. Queen Mary is one of the most pro-active universities with regard to social media, with the university (@QMUL), the library (@QMLibrary), and some schools (@SLLFQMUL) all having active twitter accounts to keep in touch with students. Events and networking opportunities are frequently advertised via these accounts, and if you want to be the first to know the latest library changes, or make snide noise complaints from your desk, the Twitter account is the place to go. Almost every course has a Facebook group allowing the sharing and discussion of work. People work well as a team and the chance to engage with course mates outside the lecture theatre allows for a great development of knowledge. The School of Biological and Chemical Sciences readily recognise this, maintaining a Peer Assisted Study Scheme (PASS), and a presence on The Student Room (TSR) forum. Arguably the most key, yet under-used form of social media is
by QMSU as a charity and student government. Engagement in student politics is always difficult and social media is currently the best tool to penetrate the student population. Freshers have been able to tweet @ QMSU and receive useful, upto-date information from Sabbatical Officers. And it’s not to be said that the student union are not trying, though maybe not in the most successful of manners: a Facebook account was recently set-up for the new year for students to get knowing the Sabbatical officers, though a recently QMessenger survey found this to maybe not have quite the desired effect, with very little interaction. Social media is ultimately a key part of the new university lifestyle. Without it, the university experience we know and love would be very different. However, it is only a tool at the end of the day, and if you are checking (stalking) it every hour, like the survey suggests, you need to make sure that another part of your life is not suffering.
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QMESSENGER MONDAY OCOTBER 24 2011
News
Seven year itch for prisoner in extradition limbo since 2004
Image by casmaron (flickr)
Kaamil Ahmed Babar Ahmad, who has been imprisoned for seven years without charge (the longest period in Britain), should not be sent to sent to the US to face charges before having been tried in a British court according to students at Queen Mary. As part of ‘Justice Week’ the Queen Mary Islamic Society (QMIsoc) launched a campaign calling for a debate to take place in Parliament about whether Babar Ahmad should be extradited. Ahmad has been detained under the Extradition
Act 2003 which means the United States do not have to provide any evidence of crimes as part of their request for the extradition of a British Citizen under terrorism allegations, and bypasses the principle of habeas corpus requiring detention to be lawful and the prisoner to be brought before a judge in good time. Ahmad, who has been accused of setting up websites in the 1990s supporting fighters in Chechnya and Afghanistan, has not been formally charged due to insufficient evidence for trial in a British court. Alamgir Islam, Vice
President of the Islamic Society said that the most fair thing to do would be to put him on trial in the UK first. “They’re saying he had links with Chechnya and if this is what they’re accusing him of is true then the least they can do is give him a trial in this country.” “It’s ridiculous, he’s been in prison for seven years without trial,” said Islam. “Essentially we want him to have a trial in the UK.” Islam also stressed that it is not just QMIsoc that is campaigning for Babar Ahmad to have a trial but that there are numerous other groups
involved. The Stop the War demonstration held on the tenth anniversary of the beginning of the war in Afghanistan earlier this month also saw people calling for Babar Ahmad to be put on trial instead of extradited with speeches and stalls calling for people to sign a petition putting pressure on parliament to discuss the issue. Babar Ahmad had been arrested in 2003 but was released without charge and the Metropolitan Police admitted in 2009 that the arresting officers had abused Ahmad.
Queen Mary researchers stress "urgent need" for miscarriage diagnosis research “We want to be absolutely confident that the test is reliable” A paper published by says Dr Shakila Thangaratinam, researchers at Queen Mary part of the research team and suggests that the current test Senior Clinical Lecturer at used to diagnose miscarriages Queen Mary. “our paper raises is unreliable, which could result concerns about the gaps in in viable pregnancies being evidence.” misclassified and terminated. Research suggests that 400 Doctors use ultrasound scans pregnancies a year in the UK to diagnose a miscarriage, are “potentially misclassified”, looking for the presence of an greater than the annual embryo, its length and evidence 300 victims of cot deaths. of a heartbeat, sometimes The researchers collated the alongside other tests. In the results of the few previous event of a miscarriage, medical studies, finding that they were or surgical means may be outdated and only examined a used to complete the process. small number of women. If a misdiagnosis has been Thangaratinam said: “We made, an embryo that would need to prioritise this area of otherwise reach full term research and do a large, good could be unwittingly aborted. quality study so that we can be
Alex Badrick
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confident in ultrasound scans.” “Until then, there is a need to review the existing guidelines and for women and doctors to take a cautious approach.” NHS Choices estimates that 12% of women that know they are pregnant will miscarry although many more occur before women are aware of the pregnancy. Roughly two thirds of early miscarriages are due to abnormal chromosome numbers in the foetus, where it receives more or less than the required 23 from each parent. The paper has been reported on nationally and worldwide, making the front page of Metro and receiving press coverage as far afield as India.
A study by Queen Mary researchers has raised concerns over the accuracy of ultrasound scans to correctly detect miscarriages. Image by ejk (via Flick cc).
Ahmad complained to the Police Complaints Authority (PCA) that he had been attacked and abused by officers and that they had directed Islamophobic comments towards him. “At the moment, we’ve got about 36,000 signatures, we need a hundred thousand,” said Islam, “We’ve got a long way to go but we’re hoping that if we collaborate with others we can reach it.” The petition is available on epetitions.direct.gov.uk, a government website where citizens can create petitions asking for certain issues to be discussed in Parliament.
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Comment Does Queen Mary have a duty to sell ethical products? Making Negatives Positive We’re pretty good at complaining, everyone seems to have that down. It’s the next steps that people tend to trip up on, the actually-doing-something bit. That’s where The East London Citizens Organisation (TELCO) comes in, they listen to the problems in a community and facilitate that community to come together to create a solution, rather than swooping in with a one-size-fits-all idea. This is why they’re so successful, both in terms of actually getting things done and in building a strong and proactive community. It might take longer than other more paternalistic action groups, but what they provide is much more sustainable. We at QMSU are lucky to be affiliated with TELCO and should get involved, using some of this spirit in our own organisation to build a better Union. This will only be possible if we come together not just to complain but to build something positive.
Police Met With Frosty Reception The citizens’ inquiry into the Tottenham riots seems somewhat incongruous. Surely before we have a citizens’ inquiry into the riots, we need to have a citizens’ inquiry into the event that sparked the riots, Mark Duggan’s death? There’s no use analysing consequences before causes. There is a history of resentment toward the London Met. QMessenger spoke to some of the LSX protesters of Occupy London, and several listed unexplained deaths in police custody and police brutality as some of their grievances. At a recent Citizens UK event, a speaker announced that he was a senior member of the Met before he retired. Members of the audience immediately began to boo him - and it’s important to remember that this was at an event attended by people who, on the whole, care about their communities and are very involved with them. It’s beginning to seem like its not just criminals who dislike the police, it’s ordinary people. Addressing the questions that have remained unanswered since August is the one way to gain back the people’s trust.
Gabrielle Shiner
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lthough I believe that some products are more ‘ethical’ than others, my judgment is based on my subjective values, and I would strongly oppose anyone making this decision on my behalf. We, as individuals, not a third party authority such as the university, have a responsibility to act according to our own ethical judgments. The attitude that spawns the fundamental idea that the university has a duty to act as a moral authority is one that oversimplifies the real world, and thinks in collectivist terms. This attitude is manifested in the very phrasing of this question, by the major, and common, assumption made about the definition of ethical. By weighing the possibility of sourcing objectively ‘ethical’ goods, this question necessarily takes a particular understanding for granted. It is easy to label something ‘ethical’ by taking a static, reductionist view of the world; the real world, however, is dynamic and complex, and these judgments are never as simple as people pretend. In many cases, ethical fads that look good on the surface have very deep and complex impacts on the world, that are often not as beneficial as they appear. How then should the university define an ‘ethical’ product? Some people boycott goods created in sweatshops, or factories that use child labour, because they believe that this is unethical. When sweatshops close due to these protests, however, it almost always results in women and children resorting to prostitution and living in worse conditions than they could previously afford. It also stops developing countries from accumulating
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the wealth necessary to push this socio-economic ideology. Priya Soni them beyond this difficult stage The term sounds rather dubiof development, prolonging n many occasions I ous. I am not entirely sure what these horrible conditions. One remember queuing it means, and how its usage must make a personal value up to pay for a prod- develops in different contexts. judgment: do you strictly oppose uct on campus, and thinking – Is it really ethical to increase these working conditions, or do ‘shouldn’t I have been given the fairtrade sales by reducing the you support goods and policies option of a cheaper, non-fair- option to buy non-fairtrade that help these countries develop trade alternative?’. After all, I am products? The point is not to beyond this point as quickly as a student, without much money, counter ethically sourced propossible? and ethically sourced goods duce with products which do Similarly, it is now ethically don’t always come cheap. The not come from the same source, trendy to buy locally. People buy method to source goods ethical- but to evaluate the significance from farmers who are propped ly is not yet expansive enough; it of ethically sourced produce, up by agricultural subsidies has not capitalised itself within particularly within a campus designed to protect them against the global marketplace and context where the majority of competition from the developing therefore is not immediately students have little to spend on world. European and American ‘student-friendly’. My ethics find their ethical tendencies. agricultural protectionism has themselves in direct conflict When the institution begins had massive negative impacts on with my financial position. Is to dictate rather than organithe developing world and helps my priority my own finances, or cally generate belief in ethically keep millions of children starving the finances of others? The short sourced produce, the promoand malnourished. Again, this is term answer is clear (I need the tion of fairtrade sales over nona personal judgment: Do you money); the long term answer is ’ethically sourced’ produce won’t want to boycott the apparent more complicated. work. Ideology of this kind can environmental impact of On the whole, I am for the only ever truly flourish if it’s retransporting produce, and concept of locally-sourced pro- alised – not enforced. Without support a group of people duce. Logic dictates to me that understanding the necessity of arbitrarily defined by national this is the most efficient method the cause, we fail to appreciate borders, or do you want to to preserve economic growth the purpose. The question of support the world’s poorest, and within our small communities. ethics then is secondary to the lower the price of food globally? Sentiment also tells me that lo- first, fundamental question of Defining a product as ethical cally sourced goods are a pro- what is the purpose, the point is not only complex, but it is ductive way to deter cuts and re- of ethically sourced produce? ultimately subjective. I choose duce unemployment within our We can’t appreciate the need for to be vegan, and believe vegan small communities. Our ‘ethical’ ethically sourced produce withproducts to be more ethical than purchases though great for local out understanding the benefits. others, but I am sure most of you producers have had little impact What the university needs then, would find it ridiculous if only on a global scale. I’m hardly sell- is to educate us on the need to vegan products were available at ing ethically-sourced goods here, source goods ethically – the rest Queen Mary. but I am simply pointing out that it must leave up to the student. The market is consumer- one is not always better off after There should be a social dimendriven, and accommodates for a simple cost-benefit analysis sion to all our individual choices. subjective value judgments, when one invests in one’s own Choice is the primary means empowering individuals to ethics. Ethics is not a game of with which we cultivate our indieducate themselves and make investment, its core principle is viduality. Don’t stock our shelves their own decisions. If you want in belief. only with Fairtrade produce, to change the world, make the Whilst I agree that sourcing don’t ban Coke and Starbucks, effort to educate yourself, and goods ethically will not provide give us the chance to individuvote with your money to support the resolution to all our prob- ate our personalities, give us the what you independently think is lems, I think that this method choice to act on our own accord, the most ethical option available. is both productive and effective you might even be surprised. in its technique. Yet, there is Gabrielle Shiner is a third year Engsomething ironic about not be- Priya Soni is a third year English lish Literature student and founding ing able to freely choose wheth- Literature student is the President of President of the QM Liberty League. the Philosophy Society. er one would rather buy into
O
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QMESSENGER MONDAY OCTOBER 24 2011
Comment
"Viva Barts and The London, Viva Queen Mary, Viva the Divide!"
The Union General Meeting saw Barts students turn out in force and has reignited the rivalry between the campuses. Image by Matthew TK Taylor
Andrew Smith I read the last edition of QMessenger with interest. It contained some valid viewpoints on the UGM, although arguably a rather biased onslaught against BLSA (Barts and The London Students’ Association). I wanted to take the time to quell some of this fire and approach the argument from a Whitechapel perspective. Firstly, as has always been the case, we at BL think the changes to the Student Council are fundamentally good. Times have changed since the Council’s conception and there remains upon it a number of stale positions that, although entirely functional, are not representative of students. Considering the Student Council is influential in driving Union campaigns and policy, it is important that it is filled with individuals suited and willing to represent select bodies of students. Nonetheless, we at BL think that instead of compromising our own representation by losing a number of guaranteed positions, we deserve to match
such positions for the Whitechapel campus. This comes from the rather strong opinion that BL is more than a faculty. It may be thus in a purely administrative capacity in the eyes of QMUL, but in the eyes of QMSU it should be so much more than that. The reasons for this are numerous. For example, we have our own societies, we field our own sports teams, we have 1159 years of cumulative history, our course is vocational and we face matters of life and death, many students study for 6 years etc.
“Let us revel in the different cultures at the poles of Mile End Road
”
etc. So the question: could the cross-campus representatives that have been suggested really represent students effectively from both campuses? I think not. Even bringing it down to a logistical level, a question I have raised on numerous occasions is what are the chanc-
comment@qmessenger.co.uk
es of a Whitechapel student being voted in for a cross-campus position? Yes BL have a high relative voter turnout, but QM have higher absolute numbers. What with the (apparently growing) rivalry between institutions, will voting truly be equal? Again, I think not. Furthermore, there was much criticism at the UGM in regards to BLSA’s decision not to have individual Women’s, Disabled and International Student Representatives (despite these roles being amalgamated into the multi-purpose role of Campaigns Officer). This decision was made, however, after consultation at a well attended BLSA general meeting and heavily discussed at numerous SPC meetings. Also, BL was described as being a herd, following their leader George (or Geroge as some may say) in voting. Rather, I would say George is and was our representative; a representative that matched and stood up for the needs and wants of his electorate. So, how do we go forward? I think the best way - Merger Cup aside - is to refrain from
the default position of hating each other but build a culture of mutual respect. Let us not have to defend the divide but know it is secure in the knowledge that we all appreciate what each party brings. Let us appreciate the divide and revel in the different micro-cultures that exist at the poles of Mile End Road.
with the “ What apparently growing rivalry between institutions, will voting ever truly be equal?
”
We are in a fortunate position down at Whitechapel compared to the other medical schools in London. Some of these unions have been reduced to mere societies within their allied universities, so we have to be happy with the financial and administrative support that QMSU provides BLSA. We are fearful, though, of the same thing that has occurred elsewhere happening to us. It is for this reason that
if we feel threatened, we will stand up tall, hold our green paper in the air and defend ourselves to the best of our abilities (and, for the record, one cannot say it is not democracy just because the people that cared enough to vote, voted in a way that displeased the powers that be). Even if there is no malicious attempt to erase BL, it can certainly be said that there is a growing threat. For instance, there has been an undeniable commercialisation of the Griffinn (the home of BLSA) with restrictions placed upon ancient club traditions: the proposal of motions that look to reduce BL representation, ideas from BUCS to limit autonomous sports teams, etc. We cannot become complacent and I am convinced that evolution doesn’t have to mean dissolution (apologies for the cheese). The student council meeting on the 1st November will contain within it some of the most heated debates in years. But, as it is in rugby, I hope all differences on the field of battle may be resolved over a beverage afterwards.
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QMESSENGER MONDAY OCTOBER 24 2011
Comment Don't be fooled by unions and Labour into blaming the Tories making themselves unpopular. But sometimes you have to do what’s right, rather than n six weeks time Britain’s what’s easy. three largest trade unions It would be easy to carry will march on London. on spending, as Ed Miliband Their aim will be to force the would have us do, but it’s right government to reverse the to say enough is enough: the much needed cuts to public people of Britain deserve betspending. ter. The coalition, union bosses For if we do not make the cuts, will say, is cutting too hard and if we persist in overspending, too fast and the people of Britit will be us students who sufain should rise up and prevent fer the most. After all, no job the Tories from dividing and futures too. market can succeed without a demoralising the country. Or Nobody wants to make these sustainable economy undercuts. Believe it or not, politi- pinning it. something like that. But the truth, as most Queen cians don’t usually take up Look at Greece and Ireland Mary students will recognise, politics with the intention of and see for yourself what hap-
Ryan Henson
I
is far different and it’s vital we do not allow those who would seek to wreck the Government to succeed in wrecking our own
“Believe it or not,
politicians don’t take up politics to make themeslves unpopular
“
Blackberry's blackout and our tech addiction
T
he last weeks have been good ones for non-Blackberry users. Firstly, we didn’t have to endure the agony of the Blackberry blackout and secondly, we can finally feel smug about our previously inferior smartphones. However, seeing people furiously tweeting about the effects of this technology crisis made me realise how much the twenty-first century depends on technology. In an attempt to empathise with my Blackberry friends I went cold-turkey on technology, it was altogether a terrifying experience. A day without my phone and laptop left me completely out of the loop. Socialising was a nightmare, I had to make plans in advance, stick to them and pray I wasn’t late. I couldn’t even Facebook stalk people I had never met before. When I finally regained touch with the virtual world I vowed never to put myself through the ordeal again, I had proved my point - it’s logistically impossible to survive without a phone or internet. I am not alone in this predicament, more and more we are becoming a generation dependent on our phones. On average a person will spend 2.7 hours using their phone per day to email, call or text. Even at home a smartphone is the preferred means of internet connection, with many Britons favouring it over a laptop or PC. Often those
time goes by, and no matter which Miliband brother the trade union bosses choose for themselves, we must never let Labour forget their part in forcing these cuts upon us. So when the trade unions march on London next month and start regurgitating the same old reactionary rhetoric we’ve all become so familiar with, we should keep in mind two things. First, the cuts are necessary. Second, the Labour Party caused them. Only then can we credibly debate unemployment and only then can we seriously plan for our nation’s future.
Do you think it's okay to waste my time and money? Shut the fuck up!
who use their smartphone in the house will juggle it with oth- Stian Slaatten Skistad er activities. According to a U.S. survey of 5,000 males, 72% of ello. My name is Stian men will surf the web whilst and I come from a counwatching TV and a worrying try called Norway. 39% admitted to regularly using I am here as an associate stutheir phone whilst on the toilet. dent to study for a semester in But how is this incessant use London. And my message to you of technology affecting our beis clear: SHUT THE FUCK UP! haviour patterns? The most Since my first lecture at at common symptoms of overuse Queen Mary, there has been this are insomnia and anti-social be- constant murmuring from somehaviour, even those with a mild where in the theatre. All the time, addiction can become impatient, there’s someone talking and impulsive and forgetful. whispering. The minute someAccording to Dr. Kimberone doesn’t understand what the ley Young, a professor at St. Boteacher is talking about, he/she naventure University, an addicstarts talking to the next person. tion to technology can be comWhat makes it okay for you to do pared to an eating disorder. She that? So your argument for talkargues that technology, like food, ing is “This actually has somehas become an essential part of thing to do with the work. We just didn’t understand what the teacher meant by the last point”. So?! Just because you didn’t get the point, does that give you the right to distract others, so they won’t get what the teacher’s saying either? If you don’t understand it there and then, take a note and shut the fuck up, so the rest of the class can get the opporlife and those who have a dystunity to stay tuned in to what the functional relationship with it can find it hard to control. Rath- teacher is saying. Go home and read it yourself er than being a happier, more social generation we are fast be- afterwards, and be more prepared for the next class. coming addicted to a virtual You know what the worst part world. is, though? When somebody One researcher has suggested doesn’t understand what the that this is because our smartteacher says, and then immediphones offer us an anonymiately starts to discuss it for themty which most of us desperateselves. Meanwhile, the teacher ly crave. I, however, argue that gets a question from somebody it is because our virtual life has else if he/she can explain the become more sociable, friendly point one more time. and pleasant than our real one.
H
cold-turkey “ Ionwent technology. I couldn’t even Facebook stalk people.
“
Vanessa Meade
pens when a government won’t stop spending. Things are tough, and they will get harder before they get better. But if we do nothing, if we don’t cut back now, our potential and the potential of all students will vanish as a consequence. And it’s crucial too that we do not forget the facts. We must always remember that these cuts are Labour’s cuts. While the bankers were responsible for the banking crisis, no banker ordered the Labour Party to overspend for thirteen years. Thirteen years of reckless, wasteful, ideological overspening and no matter how much
Lectures are for learning, not for catching up on the gossip. Image by Matthew TK Taylor..
After the second explanation, the genius couple that tried to figure it out themselves – and didn’t – now ask the teacher again if he/ she can be so kind to explain it (for the third time). I mean, think about others, guys. I came here to do a part of the final year of my bachelor’s degree. It’s starting to get a bit serious. It’s not cool to be a rebel and disrupt the lecture. Come on. And even though your chat might be relevant to the syllabus, you are still taking the time of the
teacher and the other students. You guys have got it good, and only have to pay £3000 a year. I have to pay £5600 for three months of study here. That makes each 60 minute lecture and seminar cost me £35. I don’t know about you, but I can’t afford to lose that kind of money. So please, the next time you’re about to ask your buddy what this or that means, remember that you are throwing away somebody else’s precious time and money.
comment@qmessenger.co.uk
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QMESSENGER MONDAY OCTOBER 24 2011
Comment The University of London Senate opened my eyes this week Sophie Richardson President
The first University of London Union Senate meeting took place at the beginning of October. Senate is one of the decision making bodies of ULU and sets policy and direction for ULU. The meeting was a bit of an eye opener for me. Although I’ve attended one of these in the past, this being the first one of the year meant the tradition-
al opening of Senate was carried out. It was all quite pompous and ceremonial, with the mace being carried in and the ULU President and Vice President wearing caps and gowns. For me, it didn’t add any value to the meeting of Senate but we soon moved on and got to discussing the motions. However, throughout the
meeting I found myself questioning ULU’s impact on the students that we were meant to be there representing. I began to think about the value ULU adds to the lives of University of London students and whether or not it is an organisation providing value for money. It’s certainly an interesting point, even more so when the history of UoL is considered,
and I’d be keen to hear your thoughts on it. For now though, if you’re interested in finding out more about which motions ULU Senate voted in favour of then head to www.ulu.co.uk T’rah for now, Sophie @PresidentQMSU
BLSA's make-over is getting closer, and we need your help! George Ryan BLSA President
Welcome one and welcome all to another week of life at Barts and The London Students Association. For the second Monday in a row BL has had a very busy night! Last night saw 999 at Ministry of Sound and yes, you guessed it, Barts and The London cleaned up, beating all other medical students in London for the number of
tickets sold. Saint George’s were ahead early on in the evening but the Barts machine showed its might and powered past them to take victory. The official figures will be released later in the week. GO BAAARTS. This week our finalists are tackling their FPAS questions and I have every confidence in each and
every one of them that they will do as well, if not better than last year (2nd in the country). It has just been confirmed the GriffInn will be closing for refurbishment on the 12th of November, we plan to see the grotty little bar off in style with the biggest night it has seen so far so please come down and help us drink the bar dry (of
alcoholic and soft drinks of course). Sadly, because there are not enough double doors between my office and the exit (!?), I’m being turfed out of my cosy retreat and moving over to the Innovation Centre whilst the BLSA building is closed. A random mish mash of things this week but hey ho on we go, same as always.
I'm going to be asking as many students as possible about their views Dom Bell VP Student Activities
For me this week is all about structure of the Student Council, GOATing. And before you ask, which if you don’t know is the no, it’s not inappropriate for group of elected students who a sabb to GOAT even though make policy to impact on your it may sound it. GOAT stands student experience. There are for Go-Out-And-Talk, and I’m 36 elected students currently: 18 going to be doing it every day I from Mile End campus and 18 can ahead of the next Student from the BLSA campus. I’ve said Council meeting on 1st November. my bit and now I want other’s I’m going to be asking as many opinions to better inform those students as possible about who are going to be making the their views and opinions on the decisions in a couple weeks.
The UGM a couple of weeks ago, where BL students turned up en masse to vote against a Student Council that would be made up of cross campus student representatives. This also raised the problem that traditionally the sabbs haven’t consulted students, instead using their experiences and judgment to make proposals and then let the student body decide on them
through a General Meeting or Student Council. Fair enough, that’s what sabbs are elected to do. But evidently, there are still some things wrong with this because students end up making ill-informed decisions. Instead, the sabbs could involve students and part time officers earlier. I’ve taken it on board and that’s why I’ll be out the office GOATing to as many of you as possible.
The government's HE policy doesn't fill one with confidence Oscar Williamson VP Education & Welfare
The new fee regime requires universities to plough a percentage of their fee income above £7,500 into schemes to attract students from low income backgrounds. This can be a direct payment, in the form of a bursary of scholarship, or it can be a full or partial fee waiver. David Willets obviously prefers the latter, as it reduces the
amount government has to lend to the students. Nobody else likes fee waivers. Since the discount is applied before the government issues the loans, universities don’t get to keep the difference. And since the universities are paid the fees directly, the only difference a partial waiver makes to the student is that you
pay your loan off in 2030 instead of 2035. The monthly repayments are exactly the same, because they are determined by how much you earn, not how much you owe. Less longterm debt is of course better than more long-term debt, but that distinction is not massively useful for food and rent in 2011. As a result, to the govern-
ment’s apparently genuine surprise, hardly any universities are using fee waivers at all. The government’s higher education policy doesn’t fill one with confidence at the best of times. But ministers’ seemingly genuine surprise that universities are choosing option A: more money, over option B: less money, doesn’t make it any easier.
Writing a column about your job is difficult when you're not doing it Sam Creighton VP Communications
Writing a column about your job is difficult when you’re not actually doing it. However, just because I happen to be on annual leave partaking in the age old practice of CV building (workexperience) for two weeks doesn’t mean that I have been able to extricate myself entirely from the wonderful world of QMSU, far from it.
comment@qmessenger.co.uk
My phone is buzzing out of my pocket like never before with calls and texts from students, sabbs and staff with things that I must know, questions I must answer and tasks I must do. I have no problem with this, I’m the sort of person who sits in bed and writes my to do list for tomorrow in order to cheer up. However, I understand
that that makes me abnormal and probably mentally unhealthy. This being the case, what happens when a sabb is the sort of person who does need a break now and again? Should sabbs even be allowed a break? Do they stop working when they leave the office at five or are they on call 24/7? If they book off holiday are
they actually on holiday, or are the simply not in the office? I know the way I handle things but I also know that I have felt like I’ve been burnt out at points over the past 18 months. So, how should sabbs handle the work/other balance? Seriously, answers on a postcard please.
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QMESSENGER MONDAY OCTOBER 24 2011
Satire All characters appearing in this work are fictitious. Any resemblance to real persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental. Please don’t mistake anything on this page for fact.
Felines smarter than humans, study shows Keumars Afifi-Sabet Amid concerns the general population is being “dumbed down”, a recent study seems to suggest that domesticated cats have finally surpassed the standard human level of intelligence, or more specifically “common sense”. The study, conducted by a team of dedicated experts in animal intelligence and psychology, spanned several months in a research facility located north of Romford, South East England. Humans and cats alike faced a number of simple challenges which aimed to test cognitive function and resourcefulness. Such tasks included locating a hidden piece of cheese in an untidy living room and attempting to successfully exit a locked second storey kitchen. It was found that domesticated cats were on average 21% more successful and finished tasks 5.2 seconds
Image by Christian Payne
quicker than their human counterparts. Expert Dr. Marvin Yates claimed: “These results are highly significant. Further study is needed, of course, but it serves as a foundation that human intelligence levels are dropping at a frightening rate.” However, the study is facing criticism for being “inherently flawed”. Leading feline specialist Dr. Samantha Briggs slammed the study, arguing that most of the tests were
Easy essay of the week
Tip of the week
Q: “Why do we study history?” A: “Because humans are essentially narcissistic and can’t get enough of themselves.”
If someone comes up to you bragging about their new iPhone 4S, just grab it off them and tell Siri to “Text Mum Google Image search results for glory hole”.
By Joy Steele
public for their opinions surrounding cats’ new found perceived intelligence levels, one local eccentric claimed, “I told everybody about this years ago. You can tell by the way the eyes glow while they stare at you. They know they’re cute. And they also know how to use that to their advantage!” A passing young child divulged her insight, declaring knowledgeably, “cats are fluffy, but sometimes they’re not.” “pointless” and in “no way posWith these results under heavy sible a measure of intelligence”. scrutiny, it may seem questionShe continued to cite an exper- able to suggest at this exact moiment in which a subject must ment in time whether cats have successfully locate a saucer of surpassed the general populamilk in a pitch black room. She tion in terms of common sense stated: “Cats are known to have and resourcefulness. What excellent night vision which far seems certain, however, is that surpasses that of humans; the as long as cats continue to swintest was heavily biased.” When dle unfazed pet owners into free the question was brought up at food and shelter, they’ll always a recent press Q&A the research be one up on the majority of the team refused to comment. human race. Upon asking members of the Facebook comment of the week Nancy ***** doesnt really like change :S Rob ****** Just pay by card
By Leif Halverson
Shark Fright Tahmeed Zaki
Image by Matt Coats The film Shark Night (3D) has been pulled from cinemas across the globe as authorities fear the film might inspire copycat incidents in the world’s oceans. After much reorganising, the film’s producers are planning on rereleasing a censored version cutting out all the bits involving sharks to pacify aforesaid authorities.
Fancy yourself a cartoonist? Email Maria D’Amico at cartoon@qmessenger.co.uk
satire@qmessenger.co.uk
BLSA to be renamed Lawrence Jones Students at Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry have voted to re-name their Student Association after current BLSA President, George Ryan. BLSA, which stands for ‘Barts and The London Students’ Association’, will be known as the ‘George Ryan Order of Potential Examiners’ (GROPE) from January 2012. We went along to the Whitechapel campus to see what they made of the changes. Dental student, Michael Harpering, said, “George Ryan is great. Every girl wants to be with him, every guy wants to go for a pint with him. I’m really happy about the re-naming.” We asked first year medicine student, Sally Winakohl, what exactly is so special about George Ryan, “GEORGE RYAN?” She screamed, “Oh my god, oh my god, oh my god, is he here? Can he see me? How does my hair look? Oh I love, love, love George, or sexy George as we call him.” It seems that this change really has been welcomed by students.
Pawel Blanda presents...
Uncle Silvio's Dating Surgery All of your friends are connected with a girl, and you are excluded on the attack lines. Where do you go badly? Why don’t the girls like you? Are you ugly? Do you feel you the bad? Million whys of which by your head run questions. In the despair you want to cry “me outside here, why don’t see you me?” First of all, desperate seem. Anyone does not receive you now. “Come please with me.” This is a good kind of beginning if you try this. No rushing into. No leap on first girl who says good day at you, she says that good day that does not mean it wants the remainder of their life with you. Be honest, place a blow of the tightened eye to see same as she. What you see? What you see? Noticed this and that to appreciate on you? She same! She same! And this and that that you don’t? Hmmm. If you must ask your friends what they think, make thusly. You discover that what you are and if you don’t appreciate this that you see it’s the hour of carrying in some modifications, and be that what you yearn to be, you learn to appreciate you because if you don’t, as you can attend it imports that differently to? Once that you have coupled yourselves, it is time to pass over to the next stage. Girl obtaining. Here the hard rules: a fast girl is outside to please; they are ripe. But surely and naturally must you always ready its rejection. Girls cannot be forced to like one or others so don’t lean off mortally. Be backwards adjusted and she will fast exceed to you. You must make it you which are spoken about, and don’t the lies to it, which can come out from control, and a sex-report based on the lies will never function. No examines you too hard. Enjoys moment! Or you have little confidence into it after all. Remberings if it don’t requires what you want, then you don’t receives it. Silvio Berlusconi
QMESSENGER MONDAY OCTOBER 24 2011
13
Games Sweaty Brow of the Week
Sudoku
Image by B.R. This man is sweating this week as the US version of his show seems to be a flop, but who is he?
Shape Algebra
QMessenger are looking for a new Games section editor! Please send your name to editor@qmessenger.co.uk
Rules: Each of the shapes corresponds to a number. What are those numbers?
Last week’s answers: The sweaty brow belonged to Roman Abramovich
games@qmessenger.co.uk
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QMESSENGER MONDAY OCTOBER 24 2011
Societies
A Poor Showing: World Skills 2011 Shafi Musaddique Last week saw youngsters from all over the world take part in World Skills event at the ExCel Centre. Fifty one countries were represented in a variety of competitions, ranging from landscape gardening to hairdressing. Creative moulding, fashion technology and welding attracted the highest number of visitors, whilst plumbing and the construction competitions attracted a notably smaller crowd. As part of the experience of World Skills, visitors were able to take part in activities – separate from the competitive events. The low turnout over the four day event was a major disappointment. One possible factor to explain the unimpressive attendance was perhaps the lack of advertising; TfL’s late introduction of the bus advertising did little to attract a mainstream audience. The lack of students was a surprise; many in vocational fields of study could have taken advantage of the handson experience available at the show. With an uncertain marketplace for graduates, World Skills would have been the perfect opportunity for students to see themselves in a totally different field.
Rachel Caisley
Interactive airbrushing at World Skills London 2011, ExCel Centre
Among the visitors, Nashataro Flora, a primary school teacher from Berkshire, had a few things to say on the subject: “I was very impressed by the variety of exhibits and how well informed and organised the volunteers were. I spoke to one enthusiastic BT apprentice who
Image by Keeren Flora
showed me software that used of what they learn in school.” haptic feedback technology. The importance of such comI did however feel that the event petitions for inspiring youth of could have been better publi- all ages should not be underescised, and it would have been timated. Next time you’re stuck great to see many more young- on a career option, head down sters come along to the event, to World Skills. Unfortunately, even from a junior school age, the next one won’t be for quite for them to see the application a while.
Student Councillor begins campaign for a more student accessible Drapers Bar Caz Parra A Mile End student councillor has launched a campaign to improve the process through which students can book Drapers bar for events. Ellen Kiely, Mile End Raise and Give (RAG) Officer, has been meeting with QMSU staff members in an attempt to rework the current arrangements governing when societies can book the venue and what facilities they receive when they do. She was motivated to pursue the issue after hearing of societies running into difficulty when trying to secure Drapers for events and experiencing the process herself as Amnesty International Society President last year. “Drapers seems to be off-lim-
Society Spotlight: Christian Union
its,” she said, “too expensive, with the cost of equipment being most of a society’s budget, just for one event. There’s no time for you to go in either, they’ve got things planned for every single day pretty much and they don’t want you in there.” Kiely is setting up a working group to explore solutions to the issue. Her concerns are that Drapers “wouldn’t let anything student led go on there because they think it won’t be profitable.” However, she says, as a student bar, “you should be a bit prepared to take a few losses. It should be the one bar in London that any student, if they put forward a good plan that they’ve thought through, can actually hold an event for minimum costs.” She is also debating whether to put forward
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a motion to Student Council on the issue. Student Council powers are limited when it comes to issues regarding the commercial side of the Students’ Union. While Council is able to mandate elected officers to adopt certain policies, they cannot dictate how the commercial outlets of the Union should function. A member of QMSU staff explained that Council can make a recommendation to the Board of Trustees with regards to Drapers’ strategies and that the Trustees Boards would approve such proposal as long as it is in line with the aims and objectives of the Union and would not compromise QMSU either legally or financially. It is this sort of action that Ellen Kiely’s group will be working towards. Kiely raised the issue of live
music, something which Drapers has recently made a regular feature, saying: “Loads of people have tried to get live music at Drapers but haven’t been able to, and now they have started putting on live music, which is amazing, it’s a really good thing that they’re doing that, but I think it could have been done better by students, and I think it would benefit everyone a lot if it was student-led.” Vice-President of Student Activities, Dominic Bell, is already dealing with this problem. “It’s really nothing we can’t resolve” he says, “we can always do more, we want to make Drapers more accessible, it’s time for a change”. Since the beginning of the year Bell has been trying to organise a group of students who want to “have a say” on the events Drapers put on.
It’s only week four of first semester, but Queen Mary Christian Union (QMCU) has already got a lot going on! First week saw us in green tshirts handing out noodles on campus, carrying heavy suitcases for wide-eyed Freshers and waving donuts at them from behind a stall. We also held the ‘Grill A Christian’ event where anyone could come and ask a panel of 5 Christians any question about their faith. Look out for more of these over the year. From then on, we have continued to tour East London restaurants as we get to know each other as a society. But we’re not just about food! QMCU meets every Thursday at the St. Benet’s Chaplaincy where a group of Christians from the university sing, pray and learn about God together from our weekly guest speakers. It’s also a great opportunity to get to know other Christians at the University. Why is this important? As the name suggests, we appreciate having unity here on campus among people who want to love and serve God together. With this in mind, we’ve started small weekly groups, so that we can support each other and discuss our day to day lives. We also run many social events, including curry in Brick Lane, exploring the Southbank and hearing The Gentlemen live from a living room. We are a very active society that has many events throughout the year. This week, we’re joining with Christian Unions across London to take part in a nationwide event that will continue throughout the year. We do this because we believe that everyone should have a chance to ask questions and explore Christianity. Coming up this term we have lunch bars, book stalls and we’ll obviously be ending the term with a Christmas Carols service. All of these things are just more opportunities for us to share our faith and also share friendship with those around us.
15
QMESSENGER MONDAY OCTOBER 24 2011
Sport
Sport in Spotlight: The first QM vs Barts hockey clash
Combating the debacle of sport club initiations Hollie Carter
Alex Reeves Queen Mary Mens 1st XI played their first fixture of the season last Wednesday in a pre-season warm up game against cross-campus rivals Barts. The fixture, known in close quarters as the “El Classico” of the sporting world, meant that, despite the fixture being a friendly, there would be no holding back from either team. With club captain Alex Reeves, sticking true to his word on a “youth orientated policy”, the Leopards started the match with no less than eight freshers on the pitch. It was a welcome opportunity for those players to stake a claim for a starting position in next week’s first competitive fixture against King’s Medics 1sts. Many did not disappoint. There was some promising tran-
sitional play from back to front, with full backs Callum Saunderson and Chris Smith bombing down the wings and creating sustained pressure. After battling through the first half, where both sides created a few chances and there was some good shot stopping by Jack Gardner in goal, Barts took the lead thanks to an excellent drag flick over the two QM defenders lying on the goal line. QM soon equalised after a mad scramble following a penalty corner, leading to Chris Gabbott being in the right place at the right time and stabbing the ball home from close range. Unfortunately, after half-time QM lost their way a little – perhaps due to some issues of stamina which will need addressing at the next training session. There were also a couple of injuries, with Tom Sword unfortunately struck down with a groin injury after an excel-
lent debut. Barts took advantage of this and two second half goals swung the match in their favour, both swift counter attacks. QM were left ruing the fact that out of eight penalty corners they created, they only converted one of them. Air shots certainly did not help. The highlight of the match was created by Fresher Alan, who duly got elected D.O.D for his amazing weaving run with the ball – in the wrong direction. Speaking after the game he said “Nobody was following me. When I looked up I was rather lonely. The opposition looked to be cheering me on”. No doubt in the future he will be shown prior to the games which end to attack! Good luck to both the Mens and Womens teams who start their BUCS and ULU campaigns next week.
During the first few weeks of university, student media across the country will inevitably produce material on initiations in sports and societies. In that sense this article is almost as predictable as the initiations themselves, which, despite the denials of clubs and societies, do still happen. Queen Mary is no exception in this matter, and while this article is not intended to highlight the activities of any particular group it would be completely naive of me and our fellow students to deny that in some form or other initiations do take place. We’ve all heard the rumours of inappropriate amounts of nudity and excess alcohol as a part of socials and as a member of a society myself I am no stranger to the role that alcohol plays in social events. Yet, as each freshers week goes by the stories of what happens at those particular socials become more and more terrifying. The worrying thing is that secrecy is as much a form of initiation as the events themselves and as such it is hard to ever gain a true picture of what hap-
pens at closed session. Initiations are not the only thing troubling the social side of QM. The heavy focus placed on alcohol in socials has meant that many sports and societies are limited to those who drink, and exclude those who choose not to. Queen Mary has a diverse student body and our sports and societies, which represent our university, should aim to reflect this, yet, there are many who would argue they don’t. I can’t attribute this solely to the emphasis clubs place on alcohol, but, those who have spoken up about feeling excluded have often listed alcohol and culture as the reasons why. Societies and sports in particular, have in the past been a way of uniting people of all backgrounds and beliefs, but here it seems that we are struggling to find a balance. I am not suggesting that we stop using alcohol as a social element, after all for many it is a vital part of the university experience. I am however urging captains and social secretaries to think about creating some socials where alcohol isn’t the main component, in order to attract talent from all areas of the Queen Mary community.
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QMFC 5ths claim victory in their first match of the season Ashley Sweetman QMFC 5ths Vs Goldsmiths 3rds 2-1 Coming off an emphatic friendly win against the QMFC 4ths, the result being 3-1 to be precise, the 5th team squad went into the game against perennial title contenders Goldsmiths FC 3rds with a genuine belief that this squad had the potential to not only beat this team, but also challenge for the league title. With the new arrivals of firebrand striker Adam ‘Lively, Loud, Bit of a Temper’ McDaid,
along with midfield enforcer Tommy Huckstepp, and the creative Ariq Husain, the 5th team has been rejuvenated with a new-found confidence. Clearly, the first game of the season was going to be critical. With captains Sam Lowe and Ashley Sweetman opting to begin the game with a standard 4-4-2 formation, the team found it hard going up against a Goldsmith’s team playing with 5 in the middle, and the first 15 minutes of the game truly represented a battle for the Chislehurst warriors. However, after some tactical ingenuity from the captains, in which Tommy Huckstepp was brought in from
the wing to accompany central midfielders Mitchel Ingramm and Sam Lowe, the tide began to turn in favour of the home team. Around the half hour mark, a header won by Sam Lowe, and a perfectly-weighted through ball from McDaid, put through 5th team legend Alex Cope, who proceeded to loft the ball skilfully over the keeper from just inside the penalty area. The first-half continued in this vein, with QM holding the edge over the New Cross visitors in terms of possession and chances, with Ingramm coming close after slicing the ball wide from a dangerous position. Though the second half saw
the opposition beginning to come back into the game, it was the 5ths who enjoyed creating most chances. Adam McDaid’s tireless efforts up top finally came to fruition after the chasing up of a loose-ball allowed the striker to create a yard of space and hit an effort into the bottom left-corner of the goal, with the keeper unable to get a solid hand to. With time ticking away, the 5ths were content to see the game out, but the opponents clearly had contradictory ideas. With around 20 minutes to go, following a spell of Goldsmiths pressure, our opponents were able to put a goal past eventual
man of the match with a cross snaking its way through the defence to find a spare man at the back post who coolly struck the ball into the roof of the net. Cue backs to the wall. Cue squeaky bum-time. The last 20 minutes of the game were spent with Goldsmith’s peppering eventual man of the match winner goal-keeper Sean Mahoney, who adeptly kept the QMFC goal safe from an equaliser. Mentions go to centre-back Andy Durr, midfielders Tommy Huckstepp and Mitchell Ingramm, along with substitutes Jack Gibbes and Graham Poole, whom all had good performances.
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16
QMESSENGER MONDAY OCTOBER 24 2011
Sport
Black History Month: Bolting a new era Shafi Musaddique On his official Twitter page, the fastest man in the world claims to be playing Call of Duty. A mighty respect is given, almost out of fear, for an anonymous gamer who threatens to collect more than eighty kills. But who, in the world of sport, could have foreseen the destruction and celebration caused by the Bolt? Born in Trelawny, Jamaica, on 21st August 1986, Usain Bolt’s rise to prominence has its background in a time and place of calm sanctuary in comparison with the struggles of earlier black sportsmen and women. Lackadaisical and gangly, the professionalism of the young Usain was called into question on a frequent basis. A run in with the local police about a practical joke would be one of the rebellious forays from the cheeky chappy. What followed would electrify the world. Such bravado has seen the world witness a 9.69s world record; some even claim he could have made the faster time of 9.55s had the Jamaican not celebrated before the finish. Yet, with individuals shining this brightly, how well can they mix into a nation’s team effort? An
States signalled an era of sport and politics merging together. The former was the stage in exposing the latter. In a later press conference, Tommie Smith made the point of how sport could dictate and subject identities. “If I win, I am an American, not a black American. But then if I did something bad, they would say ‘a Negro’.” The former record holder notably added: “On the track, you are Tommie Smith, the fastest man in the world, but once you are in the dressing room you are nothing more than a dirty Negro”. Language is a powerful tool. In an age of Twitter and immediate social connections, Smith’s frank assessment would not fail to shake the modern world. The foundations of black hisPerson runs in black and white in order to be relevant for Black History Month. Image by Jonathon Hind tory on a sporting scale has emphatic victory for the 4x100 it is the standard by which all succeed any hypothetical quan- been achieved by the challengmetres relay team at the World competitive personalities must dary of a past era, a shining ing of the ideas of identity as Championships, Daegu, in Sep- aim for. His success is in its beacon outlasting the Olym- well as discrimination. tember was synonymous with style. When he wins, he does it pic torch. Such an easy ride in The world has moved on since the phonetic serenity of re- in memorable fashion. modern day sports has come at 1968, when black American athlay team mates Blake, Frater But could Usain Bolt have a price. letes considered boycotting the and Carter. An impressive col- succeed in an era of status In 1968, Tommie Smith and Olympic Games in Mexico. Polection of Puma boots and ar- quo racism, such as the Olym- John Carlos of the 200m com- litical statements are not such row darting celebrations are pics staged in Nazi Germany? petitions raised their fists in one tectonic shifting moments nowno longer a phenomenon. Bolts The answer, many would like of the most powerful images in adays, but the slogans and saycontribution is more than a list to think, would be a satisfacto- sport. The salute against racial ings are wrapped up in a punchy of successful black sportsmen; ry yes. His achievement would discrimination in the United celebration. Just ask Usain.
The story of sport: tragedy and hope QMFC 4ths celebrating a 2-1 win against Goldsmith’s second team under substitute capAs we enter into the fifth week tain Alfie Sowden, and QM Netof term, I find myself wonder- ball 3rds commiserating a very ing where the first few weeks of close 16-12 loss against Royal university have gone. It seems Holloway. These are to name like only yesterday we were re- just a few of the sporting results cruiting members at Freshers’ from the wealth of teams at QM Fair. Now, with try outs over In the wider sporting world and training a regular date in we saw Wales controversially the weekly diary, it would ap- lose to France in the semi fipear that we have an active set nals of the Rugby World Cup of sports teams competing for and Man City triumph over VilQueen Mary. Last week saw lareal in the UEFA Champions
Hollie Carter
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League. Both of these sporting results, however, are overshadowed by the devastating loss of IndyCar driver Dan Wheldon at the age of thirty three after a fatal crash in Las Vegas on Sunday. Tributes to the 2005 IndyCar series winner were flooding in on Twitter with Lewis Hamilton tweeting, “He was an extremely talented driver. As a British guy, who not only went over to the states but who twice won the Indy 500.” Former IndyCar and Formula 1 driver
Mark Blundell paid tribute to Wheldon describing him as a “very well respected driver” who, “still had a huge career in front of him.” The loss of such a talented sportsman, who until his death was relatively unknown to the wider sporting community, reminds us of the wealth of unsung talent that Britain has competing across the world. The rest of this term sees Queen Mary’s fixtures list looking as action packed as ever. As always, we are keen to hear
from all sports teams competing for QM and Barts, so, if you’re a club captain then get in touch and let us know your fixtures and results and we will endeavour to give them coverage. We want the Sports section of QMessenger to accurately represent all of the sports in Queen Mary and Barts and the only way we can do this is with your help! We hope to be covering the back pages with more of your sporting news in the next few weeks.