Racist lecturer's 'early retirement' is a victory for student campaigners, says NUS

NUS today welcomed the 'early retirement' of Frank Ellis, the lecturer at the centre of a row at Leeds University, following a campaign by local students, backed by NUS, lecturers union UCU and Unite Against Fascism.

Ellis has taken 'early retirement' rather than face impending disciplinary proceedings following his suspension by the university in March.

Dr Frank Ellis, a former lecturer in Russian and Slavonic studies sparked huge protests from students and lecturers after claiming that black people are inherently less intelligent than white people and that women are less intelligent than men.

Ellis is linked to white supremacist organisation 'American Renaissance' and has shared platforms with known racists and fascists.

Ruqayyah Collector currently Black Students Officer for NUS who led the campaign for Ellis to be sacked in her former position of Education Officer for Leeds University Union said:

" I welcome the news that students at Leeds will no longer have to worry about Frank Ellis.

Ellis has a history of racism, homophobia and sexism and I was proud of the successful campaign that secured Ellis' suspension. Hundreds of students from all backgrounds took part in the campaign to send a clear message that bigotry of this kind has no place on campus. His 'retirement' is testament to the collective action taken by students, trade unions and campaigning organisations like Unite Against Fascism."

She added "All students have a right to study in an environment free from racism and discrimination and to be judged on their academic performance and not the prejudices of their tutor."

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