NUS UK board confirms ‘independent investigation’ into antisemitism claims

The National Union of Students UK Board confirmed on Wednesday they have “instigated an independent investigation into allegations of antisemitism within NUS and the President Elect.”

In a statement issued after an emergency meeting it was confirmed the investigation would “cover all public allegations made between March – April 2022 about NUS and the President Elect”.

In further details it was confirmed that the probe would look into the booking of the rapper and conspiracy theorist Lowkey after he was booked to appear at last month’s 100th NUS anniversary event.

The Board said they had listened to voices of ‘hundreds of Jewish students’ before announcing the probe.

They also confirmed they would consult with the Union of Jewish students on who to appoint to oversea the investigation.

With regards to in-coming president Shaima Dallali, it was confirmed “the independent investigation will look into a range of comments and actions that are alleged to have taken place over the last decade.”

The NUS UK Board had met to talk specifically about the antisemitism allegations and took the decision to call for an independent investigation saying they “intend to make sure that the investigation has the confidence of Jewish students and is not able to be influenced by anybody who may be connected to any of the allegations or alleged incidents. ”

It was confirmed that “a highly regarded independent party” would be appointed to undertake the investigation.

The Union of Jewish Students would be consulted over the appointment.

“Whoever is appointed must have the confidence of Jewish students,” the statement added.

The Board would receive the investigation findings and recommendations and will publish a public response in a timely fashion, it was confirmed.

The Board said it intends to comply fully with the outcomes of the investigation.

Responding to calls for the NUS to be investigated by the Charity Commission it was stated:”NUS is not a charity and therefore is not subject to a Charity Commission investigation. However, NUS willingly holds itself to the highest standards.

“NUS Charity is regulated by the Charity Commission and the Charity Board have written to the Charity Commission to clarify that the allegations relate only to activity that has taken place within NUS UK. “