Issue 147

SGM Meeting

23rd October 2006

The first Student General Meeting (SGM) of this semester took place last week on Thursday 12 October.

Several motions were raised and varied from Climate Change to "Islamophobia", in relation to the current national debate that have taken hold of the media regarding Jack Straw's recent comments.

The Student turnout was impressive, with many of the societies attending, taking advantage of the free milk and cookies provided for the meeting. There was an emergency motion against "Islamophobia", in addition it was decided that a protest march on top-up fees would be organised, as well as a Climate change motion.

Each motion was passed by a substantial majority, albeit with minor modifications to the Islamophobia and Nestle proposals. The real debate began at the end, when students raised the issue of the Green Room coffee shop being moved as many were unaware. Issues were raised as to the necessity to take decisions over the summer while students are absent, and what purpose the facility should serve. The SGM was told that plans are in place to redevelop the quiet side of JC's into a coffee shop, probably in the new year.

Ross Edwards