Press Release: Azzam Tamimi in Birmingham University

20/01/2010

The invitation by the Birmingham University Islamic Society to Azzam Tamimi is of major concern to students not just in Birmingham but across the country. The Union of Jewish Students is appalled that the University authorities have failed to fulfil their obligations, outlined in their own Code of Practice, to ensure that staff and students are able "to work and study unhindered by hostility, offensive conduct or intimidation".

Azzam Tamimi is a recognised supporter of Hamas, a proscribed terrorist organisation and has regularly spoken of his support for suicide bombings. More than that, his claim that he "would do it if I had the opportunity" on the BBC Hardtalk show is well documented. Despite the overwhelming evidence that this man is an active advocate of terrorism, the University authorities have blindly refused to ensure that their university community remains protected from such overwhelming intimidation.

The Union of Jewish Students has been in constant contact with representatives of Birmingham's Jewish student community, working tirelessly to ensure that students are able to go about their daily lives unhindered by those who wish to sow division on campus. Unfortunately, UJS has found no partner in the University authority but would welcome the University's engagement in this rapidly emerging trend.

UJS supports the concept of "free speech", but too often this concept is misunderstood and even manipulated to allow hate speakers on to campus. Universities must not shirk from confronting those who wish to glorify terrorism and aggravate campus tensions. Free speech is indeed a right; but with rights must come responsibilities.

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