G20 Alternative Summit Shut Down As UEL Closes

Rachel Holdsworth
By Rachel Holdsworth Last edited 180 months ago
G20 Alternative Summit Shut Down As UEL Closes

g20_roadsign.jpg The University of East London has decided to close its doors between Wednesday and Friday, citing "uncertainty about transport and possible disruption". Fair enough, you might think, since it's very close to the ExCel centre where the summit is taking place, but the effect is to shut down the Alternative London Summit which was due to take place on campus Wednesday evening.

According to the Guardian, UEL has withdrawn its backing for the event in the wake of reports of threats from - now suspended - UEL lecturer Chris Knight. The University fears the Alternative Summit had become associated with direct action. It looks like UEL got cold feet at the last minute because, looking at the thoroughly respectable speaker list made up of politicians, economists, anthropologists, academics and campaigners, it's hardly a magnet for violence-hungry anarchists.

If you want to express your distaste at this attempt to muzzle free debate and discussion, there's a rather erudite petition you can sign. The Alternative Summit had hoped to find an alternative venue but now plans to occupy the original space.

Image by WowtheWorld

Last Updated 31 March 2009