Warwick University lifts campus protest injunction

The University of Warwick has lifted an injunction that prohibited protest on campus. The injunction had been in place since December 2014.

The move follows the University’s promise to fully repeal the injunction after “meaningful negotiations” took place to end Warwick for Free Education’s (WFFE) 10-day occupation of the Slate in December 2016.

Peter Dunn, the University’s Director of Press and Policy, commented: “The Vice-Chancellor committed to removing the injunction that was put in place after the events of December 2014 and this now is the completion of the legal processes required to fufill that commitment.”

The University originally applied for the injunction to remove students following a week long occupation of the Rootes Building led by Warwick for Free Education in December 2014, which was prompted by an outbreak of violence at a protest at Senate House which resulted in the arrest of three students.

Warwick Students’ Union (SU) Sabbatical Officer Team released a joint statement following the announcement, which noted: “Though the injunction’s removal represents a victory in the short-term, however, we wish to reiterate our firm opposition to its existence in the first place.

“On behalf of those students affected by the events of December 2014, we also want to take this opportunity to reflect on the circumstances which led to its imposition, particularly the shocking police violence and the University’s subsequent response.

“While we welcome the new administration’s commitment to a renewed dialogue between management and students, it is equally important to note that the right to protest on campus should be a given which is protected for all students at all times.

“The SU continues to stand in solidarity with those students affected by the events of that day, and recognises that there are individuals for whom this moment represents a particularly hard-won victory.”

WFFE also stated: “This is something which we have been campaigning on for over 2 years, and represents a huge victory not only for Warwick For Free Education, but for all students whose rights were curtailed by this repressive measure.

“Thank you to everyone who has supported this campaign both at Warwick and beyond. The right to protest must be defended by any means necessary and today represents a significant win for that struggle.”

WFFE have been contacted for further comment.