Union accuses Middlesex of creating 'climate of fear'

NATFHE has attacked the executive at Middlesex University for creating a "climate of fear and despair" and destroying free speech at the university, writes Phil Baty.

A newsletter, from the Middlesex branch of the union, warns: "The university's executive are determined to restrict free speech and impose a rule of silence on anyone who voices real criticism."

The newsletter comes in the wake of the dismissal of Suzi Clark, as head of media relations and editor of Middlesex's newspaper, North Circular.

Ms Clark, who is to appeal, refused to comment. In a disciplinary report, Middlesex vice-chancellor Michael Driscoll, said Ms Clark had supported attacks on the university by agreeing to publish critical articles in North Circular.

Assistant vice-chancellor Terry Butland said: "Management at Middlesex believes in freedom of speech and completely rejects the idea that it doesn't."