In a rather more subdued article than his normal contributions to Live!, Chris Mullan responds to allegations of racism made against him. This article is based on a statement made available on Facebook.
It is common knowledge that allegations have been made against me, which, due to procedural formalities, the NUS was compelled to investigate. Up until this point I have stayed silent in anticipation of the truth emerging from the NUS investigation, and under the advice of the CEO of KCLSU.
The NUS have sent me the results of their investigation, and from this point on I feel free to comment. The NUS have made clear that neither of the two complaints made against me have been upheld. It was also found that I had not intended to cause any offence, that I have co-operated fully with the NUS investigation, and that I expressed regret for any possible offence inadvertently caused. They have also noted that my question was not motivated by any racist agenda.
I would like to now make it clear what I was talking about. Since I am from London, and represent a London university, I could not have failed to miss the recent reported increase in knife attacks on young people over the summer. I have genuine concerns that at some point a King's student may get attacked. I felt it prudent to raise the issue of funding to protect those people who wanted to study, from those carrying guns and knives, at any university in the country.
This was a discussion only about security on any campus, anywhere. The only people I referred to as undesirable on a campus were any persons who carried a gun or a knife.
I have never been aware of any police investigation, and in fact almost the entirety of the Daily Mail article that has been the focus of much of this, is wholly inaccurate, and I am currently taking legal advice in relation to the allegations made against me in the article.
In my three years' involvement within the student movement, I have interacted with several thousand students, been in numerous debates, meetings, and committees, and at no point has there ever been a suggestion or complaint of this manner. I understand and appreciate the great cause for concern generated by the article in the Daily Mail, however I firmly believe I have a duty to do the best for all students, and that means asking questions relating to their safety, which is in truth all that I have done.
I welcome any questions from anyone who is interested, or wishes to voice their opinion, who wishes to discuss the issue.
I am relieved that this ordeal is over, it has been a terrible and hard time for me, my family, and friends. Some interesting issues have come out of this, but I am glad the matter has been resolved. I am happy with the decision, I look to move forward and grow from this, putting all the negativity behind. Every experience is a learning experience, and I hope no other student has to go through what I have been through.
I'd like to say a big thank you to the very many people who have supported me throughout this difficult time.
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