Edinburgh University “deeply regrets” heavy-handed security at fossil fuel protest

Edinburgh University has moved to distance itself from the actions of a security guard who has been accused of assaulting a student.

The film was shared on social networks showing the guard tackling a student to the ground then holding his throat during a protest against the university’s refusal to divest from fossil fuels.

In a statement, a University of Edinburgh spokesperson said: "The University is aware of, and deeply regrets, the unfortunate incident that is currently being played on social media.  The matter is now in the hands of the police. 

FURTHER READING:

Environmental NGO lends backing to Edinburgh University protestors

Global energy subsidies to reach $5.3 tr by 2015, finds IMF

"We continue to support the right of students to peacefully and lawfully demonstrate and the University is using private security outside its buildings in Chambers Street in order to secure the safety of staff and students during the occupation.

"We are constantly reviewing our security arrangements to make sure that they are appropriate to the circumstances in what is an evolving situation."

The video has been shared by president of the National Union of Students in Scotland Gordon Maloney among others: