The Beaver is printed on 100% recycled paper. Please recj'cle your copy. The newspaper of the London School of Economics Students' Union since 1949 • 26 February 2008 • Issue 683 www.votesu08.com rtB ack to the s Emmanuel Akpan-Inwang, who is running uncotested for the paid Sabbatical position of Education and Welfare officer No contest in four elections » One £26,000 p.a. Sabbatical and three Executive races uncontested » Nominations period had to be extended to attract candidates for some positions HENRY LODGE & JOE BENNISON_ The position for next year's Education and Welfare Sabbatical Officer is uncontested with Emmanuel Akpan-Inwang the only candidate for the £26,000 per annum job. Also uncontested are the executive positions of Environment and Ethics Officer, Women's Officer and Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender (LGBT) Officer. Following a 48 hour extension of the nomination period from 5pm on Monday the 18th of February to 5pm on Wednesday, Vladimir Unkovski-Ko-rica & Luke Spyropoulos both submitted their names for the position of Mature and Part-Time students Officer and Jessica Brayne and Rabiya Aslam for the Students with disabilities Officer position. For those races that are uncontested, the choice is between the candidate or a call to re-open nominations (RON). James Bacon, the returning officer stressed the importance of being able to vote RON. "RON is a viable threat. I ran against RON and he did get 200 votes." When asked what he would do if RON were to receive more votes than the candidate. Bacon replied: "We'll look at it if and when it happens. To my knowledge it has never happened." Emmanuel Akpan-Inwang, who is running for Education and Welfare, explained that, "To claim I am running unopposed, that I am somehow automatically appointed and the election itself is invalidated, is an incorrect assessment of the situation." Last year the positions of Residences Officer, LGBT and Returning Officer were all uncontested, but all the paid sabbatical positions had at least two candidates. Environment and Ethics, Women's Officer, LGBT Officer and Education and Welfare Officer positions are all being contested by just one candidate. The only alternative to instating them in their respective positions is to call to re-open nominations (RON). Elizabeth Merrow, who is running for LGBT officer, said, "I find it alarming that such a high number of welfare positions in particular are uncontested... this may be a manifestation not only of the students increased indifference, but also the SU's priorities - both are indicative of the waning interest in SU politics." Equally, Justus Rollins, the sole Environment and Ethics candidate, said, "I am sad that not more people seem... eager enough to throw themselves into student politics." Although, he then added, "It is a relief not to be forced to campaign beyond my strength." This year also sees fewer female candidates for sabbatical positions. Last year, four of the eleven candidates for sabbatical positions were female compared to two of the twelve candidates this year. Bacon insisted that as returning officer, he was not solely responsible for getting people to run for positions, and that the student body itself has to be interested. Despite the lack of executive candidates, there are five General Secretary candidates. There are only 3 first years running for executive positions and none for sabbatical positions. However, Bacon shied away from blaming a politically apathetic Freshers crop, saying: "I wouldn't put it on 1st years. It's a general decline - perhaps this is just the last of the old guard showing itself in the GenSec race." Turn to pages 4 & 5 for more » Comment' &Anal)^is; ' Meanwhile; Central .< » Featujp interview with LSE'sMP ^Sports 20-^ AU Max^ »Pullout » All the candidates' manifestos for the upcoming elections NEWS 26 February 2008 [Higher Education News HE Love of learning lost in 'studying for jobs' A university Vice-Chancellor has criticized the Government for promulgating the view that higher education is nothing more than a career stepping stone. Mike Thorne, Vice-Chancellor of Anglia Ruskin University, said that students are no longer motivated by love of learning, but rather view a degree as simply a tool for getting a job. He told a meeting of the Ruskin Society that "Too few people value education for its own sake," and that government education policy is increasingly "Treasury-motivated". He added that "the pendulum has swung too far in favour of an instrumental view of education". EducationOiMrdianco.uk Universities get £i05m for new courses THE Higher Education Funding Council for England (Hefce) has announced a plan to provide at least £105 million to help universities develop new courses over the next three years. The cost will be split between students, government and employers. The goal is to attract 10,000 new entrants in 2009-10 and a further 20,000 in 2010-11. Professor David Eastwood, Hefce's Chief Executive, announced last Thursday that it was on track to create 5,000 new places for the coming academic year, part funded by employers. Eastwood told the Conference of Northern Universities that "This is not an agenda with which universities are unfamiliar This is in part about a rediscovery of roots and a vision deeply etched in universities' history. That so many universities and colleges are already engaged with employers is no accident. It reflects their refreshed mission; and for many it is now part of their core business." NEWS Kate Nash says university is not for everyone IN her acceptance speech for best female artist at the Brit Awards last week, Kate Nash said that universities are not the only option for ambitious youngsters. A graduate from the Brit School, a state-funded performing arts and technology school, Nash said "It's really important to have arts in education because not everybody is academic and not all of us get into university like, but don't worry if you don't." Her comments have been endorsed by education pressure group Edge, a promoter of vocational learning. However, the Russell Group has argued that going to university leads to higher salaries and better jobs. eaver Archive f Jitf HTf NtT .^,.1 ,,y „ Treat IT (»a 0^ /#»> >Flirr*f>e B ii --i 1 i.-,. ... . «»¦«W-jfl . ........ Hust PRESIDENT- ELECT mgi REF hi if ^ «*«.• WrVri tAfl n t* 'm « "in t1 Ot4 M tilt bfjt» i in ¦twtpjtft J m L 21 February 1957 Let's treat it more seriously: hustings tomorrow The Presidential hustings of the 8th were criticised by many as being slightly too overbearing on those who were subjected to its rigours. The candidates, it is claimed, were not given a very fair hearing and their policies were stormed out of existence by the barrage of airborne flour bags and toilet rolls! The hustings, which will be taking place tomorrow for Deputy-President and General Secretary, wiU provide a chance for yet more humour, but moderation is hoped for; not only for the candidates concerned, but for the sake of those who have to clean up afterwards. The cost to the Union for the labour involved two weeks ago in cleaning up the floury mess should not be repeated. By the time this appears in print the nominations for both posts of D.P. and Gen. Sec. will be widely known. Even after RAG week, the public is not safe from a barrage drunken yet morally superior charity events. This Friday we're organizing an epic trip to Manchester: free food, free accommodation and free love will all feature as we fundraise for Barnados with other students from around the country. Not convinced yet? Well, maybe it's worth mentioning the whole weekend is PIRATE THEMED!! The hitch-hike to Paris is also in full swing with places going quick. Participants in teams of two or three will attempt to reach Paris as quickly as possible. What else could be more fitting than 50 sex-starved LSE students all sprinting for France's largest metal phallus: Le Tour Eiffel. To get involved, contact: su.rag@lse.ac.uk. www.lsesurag.com Speaker's Corner Still Human - Still Here IMAGINE that your husband and father go missing and your brother and mother are killed in short succession. After being repeatedly raped and sexually abused by members of your community you are finally rescued by a friend of a family member, arranging for you to be brought to a better life somewhere far from your own, war-torn country. Upon arrival in that promised land you are left to fend for yourself, going through a process of application where you are forced to describe in detail the abuse you have suffered to sceptical men in suits; your story is misrepresented by incompetent interpreters; the lawyer you have been provided with forgets to turn up to your appeal hearing; and when your appeal is finally refused all your financial support is cut off, forcing you to live a hand-to-mouth existence moving from place to place and depending on the charity of others for your basic subsistence, in constant fear of being deported back to the nightmare you escaped from. This story of a young girl arriving in the United Kingdom from Somalia in 2004 and now living in destitution in London is just one example of the estimated 300,000 foreign citizens remaining in a state of destitution and legal limbo in this country, their applications for asylum having been refused by the Home Office and their appeals rejected. Their financial support is cut off after 21 days, leaving them without rights to work, healthcare or education and dependent on friends and charity for food and medication. Unable or unwilling to return to countries where violent conflicts are often rife and human rights abuses commonplace, many consider starving and sleeping on the streets of Britain to be the lesser of two evils. Rather than being a policy failure on the part of the Home Office, the use or threat of destitution is a conscious policy tool aimed at driving refused asylum seekers out of the country without the government having to take the bill of a forced removal, estimated at £11,000. This policy is both immoral, inhumane, and last but not least ineffective: by cutting refused asylum seekers off from their support and thus from all contact with government agencies, any process for their removal or a change of their status is made less rather than more likely. www.stillhuman.org JkhiLi Average of one tube station closure per week ACCORDING to an Evening Standard Freedom of Information Act request, the London Underground was forced to close and evacuate at least one tube station each week last year Of the 74 closures, almost all were due to overcrowding. With nine closures, Kings Cross was the worst affected, and Oxford Circus and Victoria were each closes five times and the Circle, Hammersmith and City and Central lines each average one closures a month. With growing passenger numbers, transport experts are warning that overcrowding will get worse, and Tfl is vowing to increase capacity. In 2006, the tube experienced one billion users for the first time, and currently the network carries over three million travellers a day. Safety rules Stop CCIV filming two sex assaults SECURITY cameras in a "notorious" underpass failed to capture two sexual assaults last month as they had remained unplugged since installation. The tunnel, at Gants Hill Tube station in east London, had recently had £150,000 worth of cameras installed, but 13 of them remained unplugged as contractors did not have the relevant health and safety qualifications to complete the task. On Friday, Redbridge council claimed that Transport for London, which paid for the cameras and owns the tunnel, had ignored, more than 30 letters asking for access to the power box. Tfl claims that the cameras were due to be plugged in during an overall renovation of the station, but contractor Metronet went into administration before the plans were realized. Mark Dixie found guilty of murdering Sally Anne Bowman MARK Dixie was found guilty on Friday of murdering 18-year-old model Sally Anne Bowman. Bowman's body was left partially naked in a pool of blood in her driveway in Croydon, having been sexually attacked and stabbed seven times. Dixie had used a necrophilia defence, claiming he had simply found her unconscious body and had sex with it. He denied he had anything to do with her death, and said he thought she had just passed out drunk until after he had sex with her The jury of seven women and five men were not convinced, however, and found him guilty to the cheers of Bowman's family. Dixie had a string of previous sex offence convictions, and detectives believe he may have been responsible for a murder in Australia in the 1990s. NEWS IBeaver I 26 February 2008 Anti Iraq war activist planned "citizen's arrest" of LSE professor RAJAN PATEL SENIOR REPORTER A lecture to be given by Christopher Greenwood QC, professor of International Law at the LSE, was postponed at short notice by the School "due to security concerns". Chris Coverdale, legal advisor to Make War History - an activist organisation set up in opposition to the Iraq war -told The Beaver that he intended to "carry out a citizen's arrest" on Professor Greenwood at the lecture. Greenwood provided legal advice to the UK government in the run up to the Iraq war. Coverdale said, "Although I can't say for sure, I presume that the LSE was informed of this and then cancelled the event." He argued that Greenwood was "the main legal architect" of the Iraq war and was therefore partly responsible for civilian loss of life in the conflict. Coverdale intended to perform a citizen's arrest on Greenwood "under sections 51 "Christopher Greenwood's legal advice was at best five per cent correct" Chris Coverdale Make War History and 52 of the International Criminal Court Act 2001", which relate to genocide and "conduct ancillary to genocide". Greenwood was one of eight individuals involved in drafting the statement of the then attorney general. Lord Goldsmith, of 17 March 2003, which argued that three existing UN Security Council resolutions justified the use of force against Iraq. As an acknowledged expert on war law. Greenwood's advice on the legality of military action had been sought by Lord Goldsmith. Speaking to the Times newspaper in March 2003, Greenwood said: "I think there is existing authority [for military action], deriving from resolutions 678, 687 and 1441. Of course, it would be highly desirable to have a second UN resolution because that puts the matter beyond serious question, but if that is not possible, I would support the use of force without the resolution." Coverdale is not a lawyer, but described himself as being "versed in the law of war". He claimed that Greenwood's advice was "at best five per cent correct". Greenwood told The Beaver that he had "no intention of engaging in a battle of the press releases" with Coverdale. "His [Coverdale's] allegations are complete nonsense" Christopher Greenwood QC LSE Professor of International Law He described Coverdale's allegations as "complete nonsense". Make War History claims that the Metropolitan Police and its war crimes division are now investigating criminal offences committed by current and former members of the government - including Tony Blair and Lord Goldsmith -after pressure from activist groups. On the day before the event, Coverdale informed the Metropolitan Police of his plans to disrupt Greenwood's lecture. He said, "The policemen mentioned to me that they'd have to pass the information on. We assumed that this meant within the Met, but perhaps the LSE was informed as well...which surprised us." Recent public lectures given by Richard Dearlove, the former head of MI6, and Louis Michel, the European Commissioner for Development and Humanitarian Aid, have also been disrupted by activists. Last year, human rights protesters stormed a talk given by the then Foreign Minister of South Africa, Dlamini Zuma. Greenwood added that the lecture - "Can International Law change the World?" - had been postponed, not cancelled, by the School. A new date for the event has yet to be confirmed. New laws for overseas students may cost the School £200,000 » Foreign Office also vets overseas postgraduate students for 'links to WMD programmes" RAJAN PATEL SENIOR REPORTER Complying with forthcoming UK government regulations for international students may cost the LSE around £200,000 in fees. Tier Four of the new 'points based system' (PBS) for international migrants requires UK universities to 'sponsor' students from outside the European Economic Area and Switzerland. Universities will need to provide prospective international students with a "certificate of sponsorship" to confirm their ability to undertake a course of study. The Home Office website states that universities will have to inform the government if their international students fail to enrol for courses, drop out or change institution. The PBS was first proposed in 2006 and the Home Office plans to extend the system to students early in 2009. However, many of the scheme's details have yet to be finalised by the Home Office. With the planned introduction of the PBS drawing nearer, UK universities are expressing concern. Simeon Underwood, the LSE's academic registrar, said, "We have found negotiation with the Home Office about the points- based system both frustrating and exasperating. "We are no closer to knowing how the PBS scheme will work in detail or exactly how much it will cost the School than we were six months ago." He added, "The director has personally lobbied ministers in both DIUS [Department for In an article published in the Guardian newspaper of 29 January, an LSE spokesperson stated that the School might » Mathematics - a "sensitive subject" at the LSE » 1 - Number of offers processed by the LSE under the Academic Technology Approval Scheme »£10 - cost to the LSE of sponsoring an applicant from outside the European Economic Area »4552 - number of students domiciled overseas studying at the LSE last year » £50,000 - £200,000 - LSE's estimate of cost of complying with the new system Innovation, Universities and Skills] and the Home Office, and we are ensuring that School officers are involved in the national level discussions." Underwood indicated that every certificate of sponsorship issued would cost the School £10. have to appoint three new full-time staff and pay between £50,000 and £200,000 in fees to comply with the regulations. Laura Kishore, Chair of the UK's Academic Registrars' Council admissions group, suggested that the Home Office may expect universities to "check up" on international students every two weeks. University administrators are also concerned that the new scheme may limit students' ability to choose between different institutions and force them to make an earlier decision about where to study. Firoz Noordeen, the LSESU international students' officer, said, "This program is more than just an annoyance for many international students. Delays in the process can lead to students not being able to start their studies on time. "In addition, that the points based system may force LSE to pay around £200,000 is just ridiculous. That money could have easily been put to better use. Perhaps on LSE's sports facilities or library provisions." The Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS), which vets international postgraduate students applying to study "sensitive subjects" in the UK, has also angered students. Introduced in November 2007, the Foreign Office claims that ATAS is designed to ensure that international students "do not have links to WMD programmes". The scheme requires offer holders for many science and maths based programmes to provide details of their pr'evi-ous study and employment. Without ATAS approval, students will not be able to obtain a student visa. Manishankar Das, the LSESU postgraduate students' officer, said, "I strongly believe that the ATAS scheme is unnecessary bureaucracy imposing restrictions on the freedom of the international students. "Students, especially students from the developing nations, have a hell of a lot of problems in getting the student visa. On top of it I am sure the ATAS will only help to worsen the situation. "If this carries on I doubt whether international students will consider UK as a destination for higher studies in the near future." Das agreed with a statement made by Duncan Connors, general secretary of the National Postgraduate Committee, in which Connors suggested that the scheme discriminated against students from "Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan and Syria". However, the Foreign Office argues that ATAS safeguards national security and imposes a minimal burden on students. A Foreign Office spokesperson said, "The ATAS system is fairer than the previous system, the Voluntary Vetting System (VVS), as students from all countries who require a visa to study in the UK are covered by ATAS, whereas WS only targeted specific nationalities." She added, "We don't believe the ATAS system would discourage people from studying in the UK. It affects a comparatively small number of courses and attracts no fee." The LSE has processed one offer under ATAS. The scheme only affects applicants for the PhD programme in Mathematics and Operational Research students. Union Jack A time of indecision. Moments of uncertainty. Fits of hesitation. The ills of democracy have made a comeback. Only this time, stakes couldn't be any higher and a good deal more players are in the frame...for General Secretary. Despite his flair for tasteless sarcasm and insipid commentary, Jack remains just about competent enough to do a degree in a "world-class social sciences institution", and shall make an attempt at professing his incisive theory on the state of Union politics. Hold your horses, naysayers. Sneer and jeer you may, but pray you give this haughty little Union upstart his chance to argue his case. Jack's thesis is simple. The popularity of a executive position, measured in number of candidates nominated, correlates to the level of performance by the incumbent; the more of an incompetent douchebag the incumbent is, the greater the number of prospective replacements who throw in their lot into the running. Jack's reasoning, contrary to what you may make of this half-baked political commentator, is iron cast. Foolproof. Impregnable. If the incumbent proved him or herself to be a stalwart and worthy servant to the Union, it would take a brave/arrogant/cocksure/foolhardy soul to put his or her name up as a worthy replacement. The reverse is also true; if the current holder of the political office can't draw a Phillips Curve or solve a game theory problem to save his or her sony arse, bet your mortgage on the prospects of a highly contested struggle for the poisoned chalice. Let's put this thesis to the test. Two positions had no candidates upon the first calling; students with disabilities officer and mature and part-time students officer. No surprise here; Fizzy ' Lison and Ze Lunatic played their roles out of their skins. Only one name emerged in the race to replace the Green-munist Angler Fisher; testament to his resounding successes in vindictive mudslinging on oil magnate (and allegedly, a TV action hero) Pee'r Sunderland. So far so good. The thesis holds up well to the first test. On the other end of the spectrum, the contest to depose unworthy incumbents run hottest in the race for Residences and, wait for it, the top-dog of the Union - General Secretary. Four intrepid crusaders stood up to denounce Lou-Reed Robinson's shambolic cop-out; signing on for cleaner-exploiting investment wankers CDgroup had left her wide open to public abuse. Pipping Lou-Reed to the title. Union Fuehrer Baker Maker doesn't disappoint. In truth, the winning margin should have been far wider; a whopping seven names were submitted initially, only for petty infighting and disgraceftd cowardice to reduce the number to five. The facts are plain, the logic incontrovertible. Jack's withering criticisms have finally found solid scientific footing. Perhaps a PhD's in the offing? 04 IBeaver I 26 February 2008 pons ' Rhetoric or passion? TheUGM Hustings CHUN HAN WONG_ Regardless which candidate emerges triumphant this Thursday, LSE students can expect their next General Secretary to campaign for free printing services for students doing reading-intensive degrees. Such wfas the consensus arrived at by the four candidates running for the top position in the LSE Students' Union (LSESU), following a question from the audience during the Union General Meeting (UGM). Four of the General Secretary hopefuls led the proceedings for the Lent Term elections hustings held in the Old Theatre and the Quad last Thursday; in total, 27 prospective holders of executive Union offices were subjected to public scrutiny. Campaign speeches and question and answer sessions for candidates running for sabbatical and executive positions took the place of the usual fare of UGM reports and debates over motions. The hustings for the four sabbatical positions -General Secretary, Treasurer, Education and Welfare, and Communications - were held in the Old Theatre, before an audience over 200-strong. The current state of affairs in the School and the Students' Union is unacceptable and in dire need of improvement, alleged all four General Secretary candidates. Steve Wall (1), the only postgraduate student in the running for General Secretary, spoke of the library "that doesn't work" and labelled the School's sport facilities "an absolute sham". The lack of water fountains on campus is an important failing, according to Andy Hallet (2), while fellow candidate Daisy O'Brien (3) reserved her criticism for teaching standards and the inadequate office hour system. Aled Fisher (4) followed in the same vein with pledges to campaign for a 24-hour library and LSE for You feedback for postgraduate students. General Secretary candidate Hinesh Mehta did not attend (5). Campaign pledges from the three Treasurer candidates were more diverse, ranging from issues over the management of Union finances to the need to unite the "polarised and divided" Students' Union. Wil Barber (6) was critical of the high salaries for sabbatical officers and promised to conduct a "full review of « A spectre is haunting our union" General Secretary Candidte staffing" in the SU. The initiation of an ethical investment policy was the primary concern for Shayaan Afsar (7), while Doug Oliver (8) espoused more general aims such as the celebration of diversity and the need to "defend the principles of free speech". Emmanuel Akpan-Inwang (9), the sole candidate for the Education and Welfare office, directed his attention to student-related services provided by the School and the Students' Union, while placing emphasis on his credentials as a holder of key offices on the Academic Board, the Literature Society and Pulse Radio. The Communications race rounded off the Old Theatre hustings, with all three candidates pledging solutions for the dwindling student interest in the affairs of the Students' Union and the UGM. Dan Sheldon (10), who ran for the same position last year, believed that his relevant experience in Raising and Giving (RAG) activities. Pulse Radio and website design stood him in good stead to bring about change. Abul Hussain (11) also highlighted his credentials, citing marketing skills and familiarity with corporate sponsors as his standout qualities. Policy points, in contrast, dominated Gaby Disandolo's (12) speech, including increasing society involvement, better utilisation of existing SU assets and raising the profile of selected RAG charities. The hustings then shifted to the Quad, where the 15 part-time candidates present were paraded on stage. Audience numbers fell considerably for this segment; only about 50 students were present when the event began and the numbers continued to fall as the hustings went on. Joseph Brown and Mariam Jamshed, the two candidates in the anti-racism race, faced off first. Current Constitution and Steering (C&S) committee member Brown joined his rival in answering audience queries, with concerns raised over his position as a member of the Palestinian Society committee. Jamshed, who had emphasised her Manchester upbringing and experience in dealing with racism, was unable to provide a coherent answer when questioned about her stand on whether racist personalities like British National Party leader Nick Griffin should be allowed to speak at the LSE. Justus Rollin (Environment and Ethics), Ossie Fikret (Returning), Lizzie Merrow (LGBT) and Ruby Buckley (Women's), all sole candidates in their respective races, were Athletics Union ^ ^ Hustings Last Wednesday saw the AU Hustings take place in the Quad. A particularly spirited event, it could not have cut a greater and more refreshing contrast with the UGM hustings the following day. Each candidate was 'greeted' with shouts of "who are ya? Who are ya?" This reporter, though initially harrowed by the night's resemblance to his public school days, eventually got involved and joined in on a few chants, though he did leave to get a drink during calls for a 'cock-off'. Frequent male nudity comes as standard at these events and a particular candidate for treasurer seemed to be running solely on the basis of his haiiy chest and even hairier back. That said, there were a number of female candidates too, who, much to the disapointment of a good 99% of the crowd, were not quite as willing to remove their clothes "for the lads". There was much talk of bringing back the barrel from most candidates, but this particular manifesto pledge seems a little overly nostalgic as far as this reporter can tell. Oh, the complexities of AU politics - the media group will never really understand. It was a requirement of all candidates to rate "lash, minge & banter" - although the answers given were clearly plans for the evening and not simple appraisals. After a good hours hard jeering, a break was announced and the Quad instantly emptied into the Tuns and poured back in again after fifteen minutes' furious refreshment. Racing through treasurer and secretary, it was time for the presidential hustings. Felix LaHaye hobbled on stage but perhaps all-too elegantly adopted the Long-John Silver air in pirate coat and hat to do battle with the army surplus clad Sophie de la Hunt. It certainly wasn't plain sailing for Cap'n LaHaye as the crowd began to chant "Sophie! Sohpie!", though he did redeem himself in the pint downing competition. Are 'lash points' enough to carry the race? Probably, I don't know. I'm off to Walkabout. A candidate at the hustings during a 'gun-off'., .; NEWS leaver also on hand to field questions over their credentials and policies. Societies officer candidates, Nadeem Saumtally and Zoe Cooke, espoused their common desire to increase society funding and participation, but both were found wanting when questioned about their knowledge of the existing society budget allocations. First-year students Ayushman Sen and Ben Phillips make their political debuts vying for the position of International Students Officer; both hailed the cultural diversity of the LSE whilst citing their track records in society activities as selling points of their candidacies. The hustings for Mature and Part-time Students Officer suffered from the non-appear-ance of one of the two candidates. Vladimir Unkovski-Korica, a PhD student, was conducting research work overseas and Charlotte Galvin represented him in his absence. The question and answer session was truncated by Returning Officer James Bacon, who deemed that Luke Spyropoulos, Unkovski-Korica's opponent was gaining an unfair advantage from the one-sided affair. The Residences race, which featured the most candidates among the part-time executive contests, saw only two of the four prospective officers, Emma Fischer and Helen Roberts turning up to offer their campaign promises. Natasha Hyatt-Khan was absent, while Ruby Aslam had switched her candidacy to that of Students with Disabilities Officer Aslam came up against fel- low first-year student Jessica Brayne in that contest; both candidates submitted their nominations only at the second calling after the initial deadline passed without any candidates expressing interest. Both agreed on the inadequacy of existing facilities in catering to the needs of disabled students and called for greater awareness of disability issues on campus. Students' Union election candidates - the list in full SABBATICAL POSITIONS General Secretary Hinesh Mehta Steve WaU Andrew Hallett Daisy O'Brien Aled Dilwyn Fisher Treasurer Shayaan Afsar Doug Oliver Wil Barber Communications Dan Sheldon Abul 'Abz' Hussain Gaby Disandolo Education & Welfare Smmanuel Akpan-Inwang EXECUTIVE POSITIONS Anti-Kacism Mariam Jamshed Joseph Brown Environment & Ethics Justus Rollin LGBT Lizzie Merrow Mature & Part-time VladimirUnkovski-Korica Luke Spyropoulos Students with Disabilities Jessica Brayne Rubiya Aslam Residences Emma Fischer Helen Roberts Womens Ruby Buckley Societies Mohammed Nadeem Saumtally Zoe Cooke Returning Officer Ossie Fikret International Students Ayushman Sen Ben Phillips OTHER POSITIONS NUS Delegates Sadia Kidwai Brian Duggan Constitution & Steering Ayushman Sen Mukarram Ali Mohammed Nadeem Saumtally Arthur Lo Usman Mansoor Helen Roberts Ruby Aslam Antonia Strachey Aliabbas Virani Finance & Services Saad F^him Losini Gajendran Rob Oorthuysen-Dunne Vbmna Nasr ¦ Sanjiv NanwanS^®'"®" New PuLSE Committee Elected HENRY LODGE NEWS EDITOR Anew PuLSE executive was elected on Monday the 18th of February and Mark Harrison succeeded Dan Dolan as Station Manager. Harrison gave his top three priorities as "sponsorship, new technologies, such as listen again and a constant promotion drive all with the aim of increased listenership." George 'Poj' Proudfoot remained head of music and James Bacon, following an "excellent time at RAGathon", became the new PuLSE admin. Eddie Hollis takes over Promotions and first year Adam Utting joins as head of production. Chris Hare succeeded the long-serving Erica Gornall ashead of PuLSE News, Rob Charnock became head of Business. Hodge An took over programming and Sacha Robehmed is the new Head of Comms & PR. Adie Kaye was appointed as Head of Tech, and Dan Sheldon will remain as Head of Web until the end of the year. During the hustings, there was talk of closer work between PuLSE and The Beaver, especially in regards to the PuLSE News and there was debate as to whether PuLSE should adopt a template website such as the OnCampus site that the SU uses. It was admitted that following initial success at fresher's fair, momentum was lost and there would be a conscious effort to keep it going next year. The positions of Head of Music, Admin and Head of News were all uncontested. Mark Harrison narrowly beat Adie Kaye to the position of Station Manager and Eddie Hollis got Promotions Officer on second preferences. Dan Dolan, retiring Station Manager, said: "Overall, I think that the year has gone pretty well." "Top priorities: sponsorship, new technology and a constant promotion drive" Mark Harrison PuLSE Station Manager iBeaver Annual Oenerai Meetmg The Beaver will be holding if s AGM, including the election for Executive Editor, on Thursday, March 6th. Time and venue TBC. Candidates are required to ha eight weeks of editor!^! ©Kgerienc© ois TbeSsm/a-': The Execwtivs Editor beaiect^d fcy the collective a?:; ^v ¦ thebeaver,rftor@Js«=at:.^:^.;: for meys? inforr^^at^:. 061 Beaver | 26 February 2008 LSE students organise 'Free Kareem' r^y TIMOTHY ROOT MANAGING EDITOR Two LSE students organised a rally outside the Egyptian embassy in Mayfair to mark the one year anniversary of blogger Abdul Kareem Nabil Suleiman's imprisonment in Egypt for "insulting Islam and sedation and insulting Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak." This is the fourth rally for Abdul Kareem organised by LSE students in the last 12 months. In 2006, while studying Law at Egypt's prestigious Al-Azhar University, he was expelled for views expressed on his blog that were deemed incompatible with the University's Islamic ethos. These included explicitly secularist viewpoints, discussion of women's rights, and a denunciation of the University's attitude to free thought and it's promotion of strict dogmatic interpretations of Islam. It was the expulsion from Al-Azhar that raised his profile that lead to formal prosecution in November 2006, and eventual sentencing in February of last year. Last Friday's peaceful and symbolically silent rally for Abdul Kareem was held in conjunction with similar rallies in Washington DC and Paris. The rally, organised by LSE masters students James Pugh and Debi Chakrabarty, was attended by students from LSE and Queen Mary University, as well as representatives from Reporters Without Borders and the Ex-Muslim Council of Britain. Unlike in previous rallies, embassy staff did not engage in dialogue with protesters, and blinds and curtains were not closed. However members of the general public were intrigued to know the purpose of the protest, though most individuals entering and leaving the Embassy ignored the rally attendants. Jean-Baptiste' DamestoyI from Reporters Without Border commented "It is vital that the world does not forget Kareem, and I think it is a great that students are at the forefront of this campaign."With the organisers of this year's protests both being Master's students, continuing students are being sought to carry forth the campaign at LSE into next year. Whilst in prison, Abdul Kareem has faced numerous incidences of mistreatment and discrimination, including beatings by prison guards, being deliberately placed in cells with violent inmates, intimidation because of his secular views, and periods in solitary confinement. This is contrary to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the United Nations Anti-Torture Treaty; both of which Egypt is a signatory to. LSE masters students James Pugh and Debi Chakrabarty organised a rally outside the Egyptian empbassy in defence of imprisoned blogger Abdul Kareem Nabil Suleiman Stelios shares his wisdom, and millions of pounds LINDSEYHALL Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou, founder of easyGroup and a 1987 LSE graduate, spoke to a packed house of students and aspiring entrepreneurs in the Old Theatre last T\iesday. His speech was relaxed and informal as he shared biographical details and business advice alike. He began with the candid admission that, "The easiest way to start business is to have a rich father." This is exactly what he did when opening easyJet at age 28. Haji-Ioannou, now 41, has since gained fame for using his own persona to advertise for his company. One of his more audacious publicity stunts involved the 1998 laimch of British Airways discount airline Go; Haji-Ioannou bought ten tickets for the inaugural flight and showed up dressed in a bright orange suit, distributing easyJet tickets to passengers. While most have used his discount airline, (Haji-Ioannou asked the audience who had flown easyJet and nearly everyone raised their hands), the list of easyGroup companies is extensive. Thanks to an inability to concentrate which he terms "adult ADD", Stelios has expanded his easily identifiable orange logo to cover a whole range of discount services including easyCinema, easyPizza, easyCruise, easyWatch and now easyOffice. (Why orange? He wanted to differentiate himself from the red, white and blue branding of all other British airlines at the time). He joked that the only business he was not going to tackle was "Funeral parlors: easyDeath." Haji-Ioannou environmental groups he argued that if a service is cheaper, it also tends to use less energy. EasyJet is much more efficient than luxury travel, like the private jets which Stelios himself has now sworn off. So does Stelios fly easyJet? "Of course I do—I'm not that rich anyways." The evening's audience also held about a dozen Stelios scholars. "My priority is helping in my backyard," he explained, which is why he focuses on the Stelios scholar admitted that his travel enterprises tend to have the most success, saying, "I think the world is a better place when people can travel." The challenge is to balance the negative environmental effects of airlines with the "overwhelmingly positive effects of travel". In response to criticism from programme (offering LSE scholarships to ten new students annually), and donating millions of pounds to his alma mater (a new academic building at LSE is rumoured to be named after him). So what was Haji-loannou's advice to the wannabe entrepreneurs in the audience? If he was starting from scratch and without daddy's pocketbook, he explained, he wouldn't take the risk of launching his own brand; rather, he recommended buying a pre-existing franchise like Subway or MacDonald's, though he failed to explain just how the debt-riddled student goes about such a purchase. Stelios also commented on Northern Rock, explaining that while he's fundamentally opposed to nationalisation, under the c i r -cumstances he doesn't see any other option. He placed blame on the FSA for not intervening sooner and labeled Richard Branson's bid a mere publicity stunt. Still, he names Branson as one of the businessmen he most admires, along with his father, founder of IKEA Ingvar Kamprad (for his modesty— "He flies easyJet, actually") and Michael Dell, whose single-minded focus so contrasts Haji-Ioannou's own business philosophy of diversification. So what will Haji-Ioannou's next venture be? Taking it easy—"I've got enough on my plate." £8oom fails to cure UK drop-out rate KATIE JANE PEEK Government attempts to prevent students dropping out of university have cost the taxpayers almost £lbillion but have had no effect. During the past five years, the Labour government has spent over £800million of public money trying to curb the numbers of student dropouts. However, since the issue was last addressed in 2002, the statistics show little change with the drop out rate remaining at twenty two percent throughout England and Wales. The cross-party Public Accounts Committee, who revealed their report in Parliament on Wednesday, cited the failure as a result of widening participation- with a 23 percent increase in the numbers attending university - in effect swallowing any progress made on retention figures. Many of these new students come from lower income backgrounds and are unaware of the challenges, both academically and financially, of university life. This has led the committee to question the quality of academic and pastoral support available to students. Edward Leigh, the chairman of the committee, has said, "More students are being recruited from backgrounds and schools where university was not previously thought to be an option. But these are the very students who are more likely to leave early. Universities must get better at providing the kind of teaching and support services that students from underrepresented groups need." The LSE itself has one of the lowest dropout rates in the country at between three and four percent, therefore twenty percent less than the national average. Jess Shannon, a first year Government student, has said, "The low drop out rate at LSE obviously shows that stu- ' dents are happy with the teaching and opportunities they are being provided with. It's a shame that this isn't the attitude across the UK and seems like the government need a new approach to tackle the problem of university dropouts." LSE students and faculty 'race for dignity' ESTEE FRESCO SENIOR REPORTER Anyone who walked through the Quad last Tuesday would have noticed four stationary bicycles set up on stage. If you came at the right time, you would have spotted none other than the Director of LSE, Howard Davies, sitting atop one of the bicycles. The bicycles were there for a twelve hour spinathon, called Race for Dignity, organised by the LSE chapter of Dignitas International. Dignitas is an organisation that is dedicated to providing community based HIV/AIDS related prevention, care, support and treatment initiatives in Africa. Students in Canada organised the first Race for Dignity when Scott Simpson, the fundraising officer of Dignitas, decided to bike 13 000 km across Africa in order to raise money for the organisation. However, due to health concerns, Simpson was unable to complete the ride and students at a university in Canada decided to finish the race for him on stationary bikes. Race for Dignity at the LSE was the first race held in the UK. Parita Doshi, President of the LSE Chapter of Dignitas, estimates the event raised about £2,000 for the organisation. The event saw students biking in half an hour shifts. Throughout the day, students participated in a draw to win prizes such as gift certificates to restaurants and clothing stores. In the evening, while the biking was still going on, LSE students played live music to entertain the participants. In reference to the event, Doshi said that she feels "it was a symbol of LSE solidarity in the fight against HIV/AIDS". She hopes that the event is "the beginning of an annual tradition at LSE". COMMENT&ANALYSIS _leaver I 26 February 2008 |o7 c&a@thebeaveronline.co.uk COMMENlg^M^,,YsiS Being realistic about SU politics James Bacon And now, the end is near....and so I face the final curtain. Okay, so maybe a slight over dramatisation, but I am about to step out; out from behind the ballot box and into obscurity. A year as Returning Officer truly is an experience never to be repeated and may I say good luck to the next Returning Officer as he or she embarks down that lonely road. For those of the readership imaware of the responsibilities of the Returning Officer, he or she is little more than the person who manages to appear twice a year and facilitate a fantasy of democracy before fading back into SU hackeiy. A slight over-sim-plification but you get the idea. Stepping into a role with bold ambition and a desire to shatter student apathy and develop a genuine involvement in student politics, whilst to be applauded, was to put it simply, an illusion. This isn't a role of grand change but one of reliable devotion. Judge on the quality and quantity of candidates in addition to the number of votes if you really wish A change of attitude from below, not above, is what is required to reverse the declining interest that we are seeing today in the Students' Union to, but I ask, are they truly my responsibility? To borrow a certain proverb, you can lead a horse to water, but you can't make him drink. It would seem that student politics isn't too dissimilar to horse hydration in that it relies on the will to get involved; involvement that that been in stark decline for far too long. I am under no illusion that under this General Secretary or the next, nothing will change to ignite the passion in our Union. Let them not pretend therefore that they, or any other, can lead such change. Remember, change comes from within. Interest in our own small section of society housed within a 100 metre radius of Houghton Street is difficult to cultivate. You can enter this post planning to change student perception, but I am but one man among many. My ability for success, or lack of, doesn't lie within myself, but within that of the Executive, that of the UGM, that of the Union and the students. It is their interest, their desire for change, their desire to recreate the glory days of 1968 and improve LSE and the LSESU not simply for themselves, but the generations that wiU follow in their footsteps. Giving back needn't take place after making your small fortune in those professions LSE stu- (9 The campaign for 24 hour hbrary facihties, whilst being broadly accepted as necessary, is facilitated by a mere handful of students. dents seem so easily to slide into. It can happen today, now by reading this article and thinking, 'maybe, just maybe I should take an interest in this'. Only then can I achieve my job, the job that some may argue ends in simple events organising, but I believe begins with creating a desire to find those rare few in our student population that can drive change. Change not only for ourselves but the future generations of LSE students. Whether you're here for a single year, or maybe three, we all share a duty to push LSE and its Students' Union further. I don't pretend to believe that we can achieve all we want from LSE by placing a number one on a few ballots this Wednesday or Thursday, but it's a beginning. Voting is only the beginning. Choose the best candidate, but unless they are continually held to account for their actions, can we really create a revolution within LSE and LSESU that is so desperately required? Attending the UGM is but one method; simply staying in contact is another. LSESU is home to a variety of media forms, not simply The Beaver. PULSE! for instance, or even LooSE. They are there for you, a chance to connect with the student population at large and to find something bigger at LSE. We have a 10,000 strong conmiunity, and we simply aren't doing enough to bring us aU closer together. With closer ties we can then utilise our unity to improve upon each and every one of our LSE lives. There are times when I feel that LSE, whilst being a small pond, is inhabited by even smaller fish. Step out from that little section of that pond and swim! Action is called for on library services, teaching qualities, facility provisions, IT services. But can we really leave this responsibility to a few paid Sabbatical Officers, or can we take it upon ourselves too. The campaign for 24 hour library facilities, whilst being broadly accepted as necessary, is facilitated by a mere handful of students. This fails to display a passion for improving life at the LSE. Argue not a preoccupation with international issues or a small clique controlling policy, and get involved. No longer stand in the shadows vocalising discontent following minor controversies, let us get behind our Union and let it, the Union and LSE, become what you want it to be. My tenure, whilst maybe not sparking great change, was immensely enjoyable from a personal perspective. Hopefully it contributes in some fashion to what is possibly someone's, anyone's, LSE experience. Let me leave you with one final thought.....ask not what LSE can do for you, but what you can do for LSE. For a Union that can deliver Firoz Noordeen Campaigns, Freshers'periods, Awareness Weeks, sports facilities; our Union is trying, but with better coordination, it could be delivering more The Students' Union has had its fair share of problems this year. It would be very easy for me to write about what has gone wrong and what could have been avoided. But why do that? I prefer to look forward and address the issues that we can reduce, or resolve, soon. Campaigning, in all its forms, is a fundamental part of the Students' Union. We are a 'Union' after all, and exist to further the cause of our members; the students. But are we campaigning enough, and is it on the right issues? Yes and no. Many would argue that we campaign a great deal, but on world issues rather than LSE issues. I disagree. Although we do campaign on world issues of social justices, we also fight LSE ones, including the 24/7 Library campaign, the Free Wednesday Afternoon campaign, the TFL day-pass discount campaign, and many others. We cannot overlook the great work done over the years by LSE students to get us the many facilities we have today. LSE has a proud history of student activism but it just seems that, in campaigns, we often overlook the most basic of issues. We fight for more sports facilities but how about start with improving the current gym? We want students to integrate better with each other but how about improving the Freshers' period where many of our best and long-lasting friendships are formed? We want better SU events, but forget to address our failing awareness weeks. The induction period is vital for every student. It is where we meet many of our friends for the coming year, or three years, as well as being our first taste of life at LSE. If it goes badly, the feelings of homesickness and isolation creep upon you quickly. The LSE and the Students' Union; in my opinion, do not do near enough to welcome students during their first few weeks. They rely primarily on a few boring lectures that tell you little that could not be found on the website. For entertainment, it is all up to our beloved Entertainments Manager (who does a better job than he gets credit for). That just is not good enough. For many students, it is their first time away from home and it is essential that they feel an affinity to their new surroundings as quickly as possible. What can be done? Tons! Why not have information packs at the Halls of Residence 19 One of the other major problems the Students' Union faces is falling attendance at Awareness Weeks events with local information about GPs, supermarkets etc? How about giving students proper mentors that actually help them make friends and 'find their feet' at LSE? Why not arrange a few sightseeing trips around London so students get to know the city ? If nothing else, how about at least decorating the buildings with balloons and banners and faking some enthusiasm? One of the other major problems the Students' Union faces is falling attendance at Awareness Weeks events. Kayt Berry, our Communications Officer, has done a great job this year promoting the 'Weeks', but yet attendance has been poor for so many events. Why? It is simple; competition. Every event the Students' Union tries to market has to compete for attention with the dozens of societies who organise events every week. Let's take Week 3 of Lent Term; Women's Week. It had to compete with Palestine Awareness Week and India Week, not to mention the aftermath of Timeless. This does not count the numerous other societies that were organising events during the week. Add onto that the fact that we are in the middle of London, with its countless activities every evening. So what should we do? Abandon the Awareness Week model? Not necessarily. Lets meet the problem head on and face the competition. How do we compete with this 'private sector'? Simple. Lets treat the students as the customer. rather than the staff. To paraphrase Mahatma Ghandi, 'The customer is not the interruption of the work; he is the purpose of it.' If we don't make each event relevant and interesting, students will not bother to turn up. Let us take a cue from successful society weeks like Development Week, but also from our own past experiences like Environment Week's super event where they got all of LSE's waste from one day on Houghton Street. That picture was worth a thousand lec-tuires. It is essential that Awareness Weeks get the message across, but we need to be smart about it. You may be thinking that this all sounds veiy nice, but what about the everyday issues like the lack of working printers in the library or getting better pastoral care? I agree that these are pressing issues and need to be addressed, but it does not mean we overlook other issues. Whether we like it or not, we are all members of the Students' Union. It is practically unavoidable. Rather than continuously fight it, I say let us work together to improve it. There is no work more honourable than that which we do for the benefit of our fellow 08 leaver! 26 February 2008 COMMENT&ANALYSIS commen' analysis c&a@thebeaveronline.co.uk A need for facts Daniel Jason Inaccurate coverage by The Beaver of the Israel and Jewish societies' 'Save a Child's Heart' charity event has undermined its journalistic integrity I write the following in my own personal capacity; this letter has not been sanctioned or seen by any society. Some of the observations reported by Patrick Cullen and Estee Ftesco on the front page of last week's Beaver are simply untrue. They report that "several students noted" that the Israel and Jewish societies were only out on Thursday and accuse the said societies of only fundraising for deviant political purposes. It is amazing how some are so blinded with hostility towards others, that they are able to skew something as decent and upstanding as collecting for charity as something heinous. Whoever they are, their observation skills aren't quite up to scratch. I was on the fimdraising team of the Jewish and Israel societies, and I personally received donations along with at least three others on any given day starting Tuesday for the charity "Save a Child's Heart." I constantly state "starting Tuesday" for this is when that week's Beaver, along with the intentions of the two societies to raise for charity instead of attending the UGM, was published. We were all very conspicuous, wearing t-shirts for the cause and some wearing giant love-hearts; all were armed with large collection buckets. Therefore, unless the sources used by your two reporters live in a cave on Whoever they are, their observation skills aren't quite up to scratch Mars with their eyes closed, it should be obvious to anyone that this is a low, back-handed attempt to de-legitimise the good work of the two societies and the generosity of the LSE student body who, collectively in three days, donated over £1,100 for the charity. Their accusations are untrue, unfounded, and ironically, probably serve the political purpose they accuse the Israel and Jewish societies of. I therefore demand they name themselves, so we may see who such accusers are. Further, I demand an apology from the editor of The Beaver for not checking this up with the Israel and Jewish societies before going to print. It is unacceptable to print such slurs, on the front page no less, before checking the facts. As for the motion itself, the educated observer will note that yet again, nothing was listed of the Palestinian human rights violations against Israeli civilians, or even other Palestinians. The educated observer will further note that in the years that the Palestine Society has been operating, nothing has been said of the Palestinian plight in Lebanon, Syria, Jordan or Saudi Arabia. According to the standing UN report and a recent Amnesty International report, living conditions for Palestinians in Lebanon are hands-down far worse than those in the Gaza, the West-Bank or Israel proper There are those who will underhand-edly and immorally attempt to explain all this suffering through Israel being the root cause. The fact of the matter is, no matter how bad Israel is presented to us by the Palestine Society, Amnesty International and UN reports say Palestinians are enduring terrible living conditions in Lebanon. What has the Palestine Society done to inform us of this situation? Have they ever presented such information to the student body? Have they ever raised a sum of money to be despatched to those imprisoned in refugee camps in Lebanon, in dire need of medical care, education and food? Not once. In fact, they are silent on every issue which affects Palestinians, but that has no Israeli involvement. No chance to slur Israel, no comment from the Palestine Society. I accuse the Palestine Society of setting themselves up as nothing more than an Aiiti-Israel lobby, with regard for Palestinian lives and conditions only when it suits them - which is when Israel is in the equation. I accuse the Palestine Society of being a divisive factor on campus, splitting students into the typically aggressive, illogical and unfair "you're either for or against us" camps. How dare you presume to generalise and simplify people's lives in the Middle East, and people's educations, well- being and learning environment at LSE? I accuse the Palestine Society of purposefully creating a charged and needlessly confrontational and aggressive atmosphere on campus which makes LSE students, particularly Israeli and Jewish students, extremely uncomfortable in being at LSE. I accuse the Palestine Society of being a two-bit propagandist and spin society, often presenting extreme views on the Middle East as moderate ones. In a similar vein, where are the booklets on Palestinian culture? Where are the information leaflets on Palestinian art? Where are the samples of the Palestinian foods? It exists, I've seen it. Instead, the Palestine Society has chosen to be silent on all issues; except those which divide student opinion. In comparison, the Jewish and Israel societies hold frequent events on religion and culture respectively. We all want peace for the Middle East, but the paths taken to get there are very different. The Palestine Society has chosen an aggressive way. Promoting diversity This author is an election candidate With tempers flareing in response to the Israel divestment motion, an appreciation of our differences and our diversity would go a long way The LSE Students' Union is the best in the country. It meets every week; a rarity for this type of forum. It discusses student, domestic and international issues. It is always at the forefront of campaigns based around this great plethora of topics. Every year we look to breathe new life into the Union through cam-pus-wide elections with turnouts that exceed that of most universities in London -even those three times larger, like UCL. Our Union has representatives from over 150 countries and as such can (and does) boast the most progressive, diverse and multicultural credentials. Our Union is something to be proud of. It surprises me therefore that there is one specific piece of our Union facing the v^rong way - and very few seem to have noticed. In amongst our tried, tested and almost fully functional Student's Union Executive, there is a position which is backward looking, as if it doesn't know quite where it is. This is the position of Anti-Racism Officer. Most student don't seem to know we had one. They may ask whether racism is a problem at the LSE and whether or not there is a need for such a position. In many ways it is a good thing that people can be reassured that it is, for the most part, a position with very little use. It is a position that does need to exist as when so many of the world's cultures and religions come together there is always a risk of undue tension at best, and discrimination at worst. It is a position that is key to running the RISE Against Racism Week on campus. Beyond this however, the students' are right. At a tolerant, academic, progressive institution such as ours, the position is rather redundant. The Anti-Racism role needs to be redefined and expanded on to accommodate a positive, proactive and passionate attempt to defend and build on our incredible sense of unity, diversity and acceptance. Leaving behind the negativity of the fight against racism, the Union should be beginning to celebrate and promote its diversity. Sounds great, but what does it mean? First things first, the title of "Anti-Racism" has got to change. This might seem superficial, but we need to make clear from the outset that our Students' Union does not fear racism on campus and is not on the back foot in tackling it. By renaming the position Diversity Officer, we can give the encouraging impression that our Union prides itself on its tolerance and inclusiveness and at the same time give the student elected to this position a whole lot more to do than sit and wait for our students to suffer from discrimination. Once we have made it clear that this position is about maintaining and advancing the harmony of our student body we should send our Diversity Officer out to all national and religious societies with the aim to ask what they feel they need from our Union. What they feel would bring them more into the fold - especially with regards to our ashamedly 'un-diverse' UGM meetings. The Diversity Officer, being proactive and positive, should be ready to step into the fold when threats of widespread tension between different groups become apparent. Take for example the hotly contested Israel-Palestine debate which many hundreds of students felt compelled to address on a Union level, and where we witnessed the spectacle of vast groups of students lining each side of Houghton Street quite vsdlling to physically square up and verbally batter each other and we witnessed the spectacle of vast groups of students lining each side of Houghton Street quite willing to physically square up and verbally batter each other innocent bystanders. What we needed at that moment was not the school administration to quash our freedom of expression, but a strong Diversity Officer to step in, pull them apart and show them how the campaign, however well intended, was affecting the wider student body and the reputation of the LSESU more generally. Not forgetting that the LSE is a part of wider British society, our Diversity Officer should be ready and willing to jump to the defence of our student body against varied external pressures, especially governmental interference. In 2006 the government considered allowing Special Branch to spy on "Asian-looking students" and Muslims to combat 'radicalisation'. When, in 2007, they realised this wasn't such a popular plan, they decided that it would be best if the government trained and vetted the speakers and imams who attend universities and address large swaths of Muslim students. Both of these abhorrent, prejudiced and destructive reports are still taken seriously by government and still viewed as viable options. Our Diversity Officer should be committed and prepared to seek out and fight institutional discrimination before it sets a single foot on our campus. As it stands, the make up of student body is out pacing the make up of our SU Executive team. Our diversity is not being accommodated or advanced by the existence of a negative and flimsy "Anti-Racism" role. This will sooner or later present problems for our Union. It is about time we weren't just proud, but active in the promotion and defence of our unique multicultural status. We are worldwide leaders in so many areas, so it can be with a rethink of diversity on campus. leaver 2ncl floor, fast Boilding ISE Stodenis' Union London WC2A 2AE email: thefaeovef@l56.oc.ulc PobHshect since 1949. EXECUTIVE EDITOR Kevin Perry MANAGING EDITOR Timothy Root SECRETARY Lily Yang NEWS EDITORS Michael Decs Henry Lodge Patrick Cullen C&A EDITOR James Pugh FEATURES EDITOR Joseph Cotterlll ^PART B EDITOR Josh Heller PART C EDITOR Romola Fawehinmi SPORTS EDITORS Josh Tendeter Sophie de la Hunt fHE COLLECTIVE: Chair: Lucie Marie Goulet l.m.goulet@lse.ac.uk Raidev Akoi; Hasib Baber; Fadhil Bakeer-Markar; Vishal Banerjee; Wil Barber; Peter Barton; Ramsey Ben-Achour; Julian Boys; Clem" Broumley-Young; James Bull; Rochelle Burgess; Sam Burke; Jess Cartwright; Victor Figueroa-Clark; Peter Cunrie; Holli Eastman; Ossie Fikret Aled Dllwyn Rsher; Lizzie Fison; Estee Fresco; Justin Gest; Erica Gomail; Andrew Hallett; Aula Hariri; Visum Heneghon; Kevin Heutschi; Emiliano Huet-Vaughn; Tahiya Islam; Felipe Jacome; Lois Jeary; William Joce; Adam John; Visum Heneghon; Naeem Kapadia; Bernard Keenan; Pooja Kesavan; James Ketteringham; Sadia Kidwai; Arthur Krebbers; Laura Kyrke-Smlfh; Eric Lindquist; Bea Long; Ziyaad Lunat; Eric Lundquist; Fiona Mackay; Nada Mansy; Jamie Mason; Al Mansour; NHya Menon; lifan Merafi; Libby Meyer; Anna Mikeda; Ravi Mistry; Daisy Mitchell-Forster; Ali Moussavi; Deotima Mukherjee; Uiso Mukheriee; Aditi Nangia; Rachael O'Rourfce; David Osborn; Aba Osunsade; Douglas Oliver; Erin Orozco; Phil Pacanowski; Laura Paifitt; Anup Patel; Rajan Patet; Will Penv; Chloe Pieters; Alice Pf^ec Danielle Priestiey; Joe Quaye; Rahim Rahemtulla; Dominic Rampat Anjali Raval; Riclw Ren; Joe Rennison; Sacha Robenmed; Louise Robinson; Charlie Samuda; Thienthai Sangkhaphanthanon; Afnriia Saraogi; Saural^h Sharma; Daniel Sheldon; Rebecca Stephenson; Andre Tartan Sam Tempest-Keeping; Alex Teytelboym; Kerry Thompson: Meryem Torun; Angus Tse; Molly Tucker; Ruchika Tulshyan; Gregor Ulm; Vladimir Unkovskl-Kortca; Subash Viroomal; Simon Wang; Tom Warren; Greg White; Tom Whittaker; Christine Wh^e; Chris Wilkins; Amy Williams, Chun Han Wong; David Woodbridge PRINTED BY HARMSWORTH PRINTING LTD If you have written three or more articles for The Beaver and your name does not appeor In the Collective, please email: fhebeaver.edilcx@lse.acMk and you will be added to the tut in next week's paper. The Beaver is avaikible in altemative formats. The w'ews and opinbns expressed in The Beaver are those of the conhibuiors and not necessarily those of the editors or the LSE Students' Union. COMMENT&ANALYSIS leaver I 26 February 2008 09 comment ANALY^ c&a@thebeaveronline.co.uk leaver Established 1949 - Issue 683 Decline of SU politics... ...may have answers in constitutional revision £26,000 per annum may seem modest to the average economics graduate here at LSE, but when the competition to get it is nowhere to be seen, it starts to sound like good, easy money. The Beaver is in no way suggesting that Emmanuel Akpan-Inwang's seemingly inevitable election as Education & Welfare Officer is invalid due to the lack of other candidates. However, it does reflect poorly on the state of student politics that even with substantial financial sweeteners more cannot be tempted to run. It is encouraging to see so many candidates for General Secretary, but in general these elections are fiercely contested in parts, and devoid of competition in others. The need to extend the nominations process by 48 hours to fill otherwise empty races is not becoming of a university with political science in its name. It is not all bad news; there are more sabbatical candidates than last year, and there are more women running for executive positions than last year. However, the trend is long term, and first year candidates are few and far between. If, as Returning Officer James Bacon suggests, it is not due to a politically apathetic crop of first years, then why is there such decline in activism at the LSE? A Youtube video satinsing the campaign of one General Secretary candidate appeared last week, posted by one'The 1969 Society'. The usemame would seem to hark back to LSE's political activist heydays in the 1960s. In the name of parity, etc, efforts were made to remove the video. It appears not to have been a candidate who put it up, which means that it was not a case of negative campaigning, which is banned imder the SU constitution. The Beaver also faces strict rules governing equal coverage of candidates, severely hampering its efforts to cover the campaign and giving blogs the lead. Perhaps a loosening, if not an abandonment of the rules would go some way in injecting the lifeblood of 1960's student politics back into our union. What's in a (brand) name... ...matters v^en if s your degree After being in the business of honing intellectual talent for 113 years, the LSE finally deemed it sensible to accord a degree, in its own name, to a deserving graduate. The old adage, 'better late than never', might suitably apply in this instance. And so history was made last week. Enrico Sette, a postgraduate student, was conferred with pomp and pageantry the crowning gloiy of a doctoral degree in economics. Dr Sette may be the 'first of thousands' of LSE graduates to receive their degrees adorned with the industrious and gregarious beaver, but there might still be history to be made. The second- and third year veterans amongst us can stUl opt for the historical tradition and poignancy that embodies a University of London degree. Unfortimately, the School has offered students with a preview of only the new degree and academic gown designs, omitting samples of existing UoL editions. Perhaps, and not without good reason, the School has regarded this oHer of choice moot; pragmatic careerists that LSE students are haven't much time for sentimentality. Something to bear in mind when you make your decision, which is due this coming Friday. i^logies The Beaver would like to apologise for stating in the article entitled 'Union tells School to divest from Israel' (issue 682) that "Several students noted that the Israel Society and Jewish Society only collected money for Save a Child's Heart on the day that the UGM took place". The two societies had in fact also collected money on Tuesday and Wednesday prior to the UGM, raising over £1,000 in total. Also, The Beaver would like to apologise for any alarm caused by the statement in another article in the same issue, entitled "New Union building proposed", that "The health and safety reports on the current Beaver office universally say that we're facing imminent death every time we work there." The comment was intended as a tongue-in-cheek statement but in retrospect, it was not an appropriate comment. The Beaver is happy to confirm that a new Health and Safety survey carried out last week suggested only minor changes to the office, and that none of its staff are facing imminent death. Letters to the Editor The Beaver offers all readers the right to reply to anything that appears in the paper. Letters should be sent to thebeaver.editot@lse.ac.uk and should be no longer than 250 words. All letters must be received by 3pm on the Sunday prior to publication. The Beaver reserves the right to edit letters prior to publication. "an abomination" Dear Sir, The title of the .sporting results article on the twenty-first page of the 19 February edition of The Beaver, 'Who Shat on Who?', is an abomination that reflects poorly on all LSE students. I am utterly ashamed. Using words in this manner is disgusting. Clearly, the title should have been 'Who Shat on Whom'. Jonathan Boben "political motivations" Dear Sir It is truly a sad state of affairs when Jewish and Israeli students cannot raise money for charity without being accused of having political motives. On top of this. The Beaver incorrectly stated we only raised money for Save a Child's Heart on the day of the UGM, completely ignoring our very visible fundraising throughout the entirety of RAG Week. Neither society has accused the Students' Union of having a political motive in donating substantial RAG funds to Medical Aid for Palestine, but apparently a different standard applies to Jews. I am a Jewish student. I came to this university to earn my Master's degree, but little did I expect I would have to spend so much time defending people of my religion from the tyranny of the Palestine Society, a group whose soul purpose seems to be demonis-ing supporters of Israel at every turn with a collection of distortions and one-sided appeals to emotion. Why did so many Jewish and Israeli students boycott the UGM? As I feel our reasons have not been clearly laid out, but have instead been obscured by the opinions of those who think they know our motives, I shall reiterate them here: 1. The motion to divest from Israel was virtually identical to the "Make Apartheid History" motion that fell in the January UGM. Removing a few words did not change the fact that the motion stiU relied on statements of dubious authenticity. It is against the Students' Union constitution to approve the same motion twice. What gives? Well... 2. Constitution and Steering, the committee in charge of approving motions for the UGM, consists of six members. Two are involved in the leadership of the Palestine Society, and a third expressed his support for divestment from Israel through his membership in a Facebook group. This is clearly a case of conflict of interest. Because half of C&S's members had an interest in divesting from Israel, they allowed in a motion which, according to the constitution, should have been rejected for its resemblance to one that had already followed. r/ Wh'>? 41 CA Ay V hu^ You don't need an LSE degree to know corruption when you see it. 3. We spoke once. We should not have to repeat ourselves. It's only small children and the arrogant who need to be told the same thing over and over because they refuse to listen. Instead of accepting the voice of the LSE student body after the first motion fell, the Palestine Society behaved like sore losers and subverted the constitution of the Students' Union for their own ends. We boycotted the UGM because we should not have to bow to the demands of a single interest group who will ignore a constitution to get their way. Jewish and Israeli students are not meek little Yeshiva boys or dutiful wives-in-training; furthermore, we are not stupid. We were not going to sit in the Old Theatre and pretend that the new motion had any validity when it was clear how the Palestine Society had manipulated the Students' Union for its own ends. The Palestine Society has hijacked the Students' Union and made a mockery of any idea of democracy. They silence their critics by accusing them of being racist if they dare disagree with extreme political views. In this day and age, who wants to be accused of being racist, or an Islamophobe? Any valid challenge to their statements is responded to with diatribes about the supposed evils of the Jewish state. Meanwhile, if a Jewish student dares even say the words "anti-Semitism," they are pounced upon and savaged to the point where I doubt most LSE students would react to anti-Semitism if it jumped on their backs and bit off their arms. The exis- tence of this kind of double-standard at a world-class institution like the LSE would be laughable if it weren't so pathetic. But hey, never let the truth get in the way of a good story. Julia Kite "shared values" Dear Sir, We would like to take this opportunity to respond to the Palestinian Society's assertion that we have ignored their suggested alterations to our proposed dialogue forum. We apologize for our belated reply in the form of a letter but we mistakenly believed that prearranged meeting of two members of the Israel Society Committee with Ziyaad Lunat last week would be an oppor-timity to discuss the forum and the Palestinian society's qualms about it further. With regards to the letter sent to us containing the alterations they would like to make, we are more than happy to accommodate these and would like to start the forum ASAP. However, as much as we have every intention of holding a forum based on commonly shared values, accordingly, we believe in everybody's right to express their own opinion on the matter and thus do not want to confine the debate to any viewpoints. In effect, we welcome differing opinions on the issue in order to broaden all participants understanding and perspective. Considering everybody's right to participate and express their own thoughts and concerns we would like to ask the Palestine Society whether or not they would like to participate in this forum. LSESU Israel Society "adapted rooms" Dear Sir, After my question to Howard Davies about adapted accommodation for some disabled students, Andrew Farrell and others were prompt at looking into the issues raised, for which I am thankful. It seems that there was misunderstanding about my question and also about FarreU's reply Essentially, adapted rooms are charged at the same rate as equivalent non-adapted rooms, regardless of whether the occupant requires those adaptations because of disability. I believe this to be wrong, if there is no choice in the matter. Applicants for accommodation complete a form indicating their rent preference. However, if as a disabled student you are only offered one suitable room, which happens to be one of the most expensive (rather than a standard rate), your needs are being treated like luxurious desires, thus discriminating against you. Farrell and others are responding to my concerns and looking into how the policy affects some disabled students. I thank the School for taking the issue so seriously. If you have a view on this situation or are affected by this matter, please email me in confidence at su.disability@lse.ac.uk Lizzie Fison LSE SU Students Disabilities Officer with lo| leaver! 26 February 2008 comment ^ -'V " Cxl analysis COMMENT&ANALYSIS Ir^'XV c&a@thebeaveronline.co.uk asfe. ._ g/, "•-. '• A Meanwhile, in Central Africa... E Harry Verhoeven While the School prides itself on its global character and proximity to the most important issues of today's world, some more perspective should be injected into the thinking of students and academics alike. Certain parts of this world are almost completely ignored at LSE, be it in the actual curricula, the public events or the activities of student societies. Whereas academic decisions to focus research on areas other than Central Africa remain intellectually defendable -choices have to be made after all - the absence of debate, awareness and moral outrage among students regarding the persisting humanitarian crisis in the Great Lakes Region is disgraceful. The International Rescue Committee estimates that over the past decade, 5.4 million people have died as a consequence of the Great Central African War and its innumerable spin-offs, thus making it the deadliest conflict since World War II. Infant mortality, life-expectancy and malnutrition are at levels not seen in Europe since the 1840s. Fought Even with a humanitarian disaster spanning more than a decade, the crisis in the Great Lakes Region goes by largely unnoticed on campus by eight countries on territory of former Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of Congo, DRC) the War officially ended in 2003, but in the East of the DRC the fires are still burning. Proxies of the regional powers continue to terrorise local populations and to pillage DRC's phenomenal natural resources. In 2007, more than one million people were driven from their homes in North Kivu Province by a rebellion and counter-insurgency employing "scorched earth" tactics, while in neighbouring South Kivu, a multitude of rebel groups are engaging in what some call a 'femicide; mass rape as a weapon to break the backbone of demonised communities like the Banyamulenge. In the first six months of 2007 alone, up to 20,000 acts of severe sexual violence were registered there. Ethnic cleansing, summary executions, child soldiers -Congo is spared nothing. Yet why are no public events on the Great Lakes conflict being organised? How many people know who Laurent Nkunda or the FDLR are? And when did you last see a society campaigning on Houghton Street - collecting signatures, calling for investment/divestment or selling biscuits for Ituri's children? k life-expectancy and malnutrition are at levels not seen in Europe since the 1840s. The deafening silence over DRC at LSE is not merely morally questionable; it is also damaging the School's reputation of critical interaction with policy-makers and concern about real world issues. When Louis Michel recently came to talk about humanitarian aid, the LSE audience was absolutely baffled by the fierce charges and threats that Congolese protesters levelled against the European Commissioner. The modera- tor's inability to control their increasingly aggressive behaviour led to subsequent chaos; a premature end of the lecture, a painful backdoor-evacuation of Michel and the theft of electronic hardware. Few seemed to grasp which political games were being played, least of all the evening's organisers. Had they been more aware of the DRC situation and Michel's controversial role, they may have understood that encouraging the participation of these pro-Bemba nationalists is akin to inviting Hamas radicals to a Bibi Netanyahu public lecture. Another farce unfolded last October" when the Rwandan president came to LSE. Paul Kagame was described by the evening's chair as "one of Africa's shining lights" and a "visionary leader". Though he faced criticism regarding Rwanda's judicial system from some human rights activists, no one mentioned the elephant in the room. Kagame, who conveniently accuses all his detractors of legitimising the 1994 genocide, might claim to be leading an African Renaissance in his country, but he is also the man who infamously "cleaned-up" the refugee camps in Eastern DRC in 1996, causing the deaths of at least 200,000 people. It is mindboggling that a man with so much blood on his hands was received like a king at LSE, in particular by its Centre for the Study of Human Rights! Not a single student protested against his presence; so much for the School's vibrant tradition of activism, noted a Congolese journalist. My point is not that LSE students do not care about justice or have become tired of campaigning for a peaceful world; nor do I wish to downplay the suffering in Iraq or Burma and discourage discussion and campaigns around these issues. We all assume that a human being is a human being, regardless of where they live or die, and that all humans should be equally entitled to peace and justice. Is it thus inappropriate to appeal to our individual consciences? Instead of shamefully forget- ting the biggest humanitarian crisis on the planet, all of us should engage with the Great Lakes' tragedy in far more meaningful ways. The argument raised by some that 'we can't do anything about it' and should 'focus on injustice elsewhere' is incorrect. Companies, governments and consumers from West and East alike bare responsibility for the globalised war-economy that fuels the violence: have you ever wondered where all the coltan in your mobile phone comes from? Let me finish by putting things in perspective once more: in the 7 % years since the start of the second intifada, about 8,000 people were killed in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. In DRC, it takes less than 6 days for more than 8,000 people to die due to war-related violence. It's a comparison worth thinking about. Beyond Palestine James Pugh With so many causes in the world, and a need to focus on those with the greatest need, should Palestine be our number one priority? Not really Yes, it's the "P" word again. It has been the topic of many a conversation on Houghton Street, and occupied numerous pages within this newspaper over the past weeks. So here I am contributing more column inches to a topic that many people may be tired of. Can there really be more to add? Well yes actually, and quite a lot too. Over the weeks, speakers at UGMs, campaigners on campus ,and writers for The Beaver have presented the case for Palestine, bringing forward volumes of evidence demonstrating mistreatment of Palestinian civilians by Israel. Given this, I think it would be hard for anyone to deny that Israel does indeed bear some degree of responsibility for this suffering endured. However, an important point to bear in mind is that when one compares the extent and severity of the Palestine situation with other cases, a great number of these other cases are in an undoubtedly worse humanitarian situation than that of Palestine. For example, it is now 32 years since Morocco began its attack and eventual occupation of Western Sahara, which has lead to the expulsion of two thirds of the population, the widespread settlement of Moroccans within the territo- si' The Saharawi Intifada; simmering since 2005 ry, and the construction of a security wall to keep the Saharawis out. Or the Indonesian annexation of West Papua, which has lead to extensive marginalisation of the indigenous population, the theft of its natural resources, and the death of hundreds of thousands of Papuans. Or Tibet, with its estimate of 1.2 million dead as a result of decades of occupation by China. Controversial it may be to say, I personally feel that from a humanitarian perspective, these cases demonstrate a far greater degree of hardship and suffering when compared to the situation of Palestine. The degree of displacement, the destruction of identity, and loss of life can all be shown to be of a greater magnitude. So if it is not based on humanitarian need, then why does Palestine receive so much attention relative to its actual situation? I do not accuse the campaigners within the Palestine Society of "not caring" for these other situations. In fact, I am sure that they are more aware of these situations that the average person, and at the same time appreciate the realities of campaigning means that priorities need to be focused, and not everything can be done at the same time. But this only begs the question as to why has the focus become Palestine? Individuals will focus on issues that they are k The degree of displacement, the destruction of identit>% and loss of life can ail be shown to be of a greater magnitude aware of and that they perceive to be unjust. This undoubtedly places a large degree of potential influence and power in the hands of those responsible for, and able to control and deliver information to society. Ever since the Biafran War, the marketing of suffering for political purposes has become better understood. In the case of marketing the suffering of Palestinians, this has largely been the domain of three distinct ideological groupings. Firstly, and historically the most powerful, are the Arab states, some of whom hold a legitimate fear of Israel, but that also use state controlled media to constantly depict Israeli atrocities to draw attention away from their own ineffectual governance, and to legitimise their authoritarian rule. Secondly, also present early on, but have grown in significance over the decades, are the Islamist groups. These initially objected to Israel on ideological ground because of loss of control over important Islamic lands, but have more recently sought to use Palestine to construct an international persecution mentality amongst Muslims, and again to attempt to legitimise themselves politically. And lastly, and a latecomer onto the scene, is the global Left. While the Left at first largely supported the founding quasi-socialist principles of Israel's Kibbutzim, this stance drifted in the 80s and 90s, with a splintered and divided Left unable to mobilise grassroots support, and with an apathetic support base, and therefore began to shift their attention to sections of the ready mobilised, and largely economically marginalised Muslim population. It is through these influential forces that Palestine has succeeded in being politicised and marketed as the cause to care about. However, this top-down politicisation is highly unlikely to be the motivation behind the campaigners within the LSE Palestine Society, who are pursuing their cause because of a genuine concern for the humanitarian welfare of Palestinians, who they see as suffering a grave injustice. The intention in this case is indeed humanitarianism, not politics. I am therefore not seeking to de-legitimise the Palestinian cause, but instead to draw attention to the politics that unfortuantley often seems to surround it. I support the principle of divestment from countries that persist in flouting human rights and international law. Some of Israel's treatment of Palestinians within the West Bank is utterly appalling. I find it difficult to imagine any moral argument to support the maintenance and continuous expansion of Israeli settlements within the West Bank, and because of the insistence of the Israeli Government to maintain the status quo, I feel that symbolic actions, such as divestment, act as a step-up in pressure when diplomacy seems to have failed. Just as in the case of Darfur - which has its own politicisations by American neo-conservatives and evangelical Christians -international solidarity and ethical interactions are vital. But it should be detached from politics - and identity politics in particular - and it should not stop with Darfur or Palestine. And possibly, Palestine was not the most y needy case to start with. Red isn't Dead Blue is True thebeaver.features@lse.ac.uk Twenty-Grst century socialism isn't just possible: it's imperative This writer is an election canj_____ News that the Government had placed Northern Rock under public ownership prompted a telling headline from the Financial Times on 17 February: 'Fury over Rock nationalisation'. Most commentaries in the mainstream media were quick to dismiss the comparison with what Brown's government had done and what they called '1970's socialism'. In fact, they did their damnest to suggest that nationalised companies are the personification of system malfunction. Just imagine a whole economy based on public ownership! It's a step away from mustachioed dictators... But here's a heretical thought: state control does not in itself mean socialism. So what is socialism? It really entails a system of production with a democratic mechanism based on planning from below by workers' and consumers' councils. An elected central organ first calculates indicative prices for all goods in the economy. Workers' and consumers' councils use these to draft production and consumption plans. These plans work their way up from the local level back to the central planning organ, which in turn works out the excess demand or supply for each commodity, and adjusts prices up or down in order to reach equilibrium. The lower levels then re-adjust their plans using the newly calculated prices, and resubmit them to the higher levels, until the efficiency is finally reached. There are many problems with such a short and abstract account but it does depart from the market in crucial ways: it assumes knowledge is social and not individual, for example. Yet how do we get from here to there? Socialism, unfortunately, cannot be built by offering abstract prescriptions. It can only be built through mass struggles from below. Such struggles have to take on two tasks at once: they need both to challenge the existing social conditions and simultaneously seek the contours of a new social order. As the Prussian secret policeman once shrieked, 'behind every strike lurks the hydra of social revolution.' Lenin famously made a plea for a more sophisticated understanding of this reality: 'undoubtedly, clear as it is that behind every strike there looms the hydra of socialist revolution, it is equally clear that the assertion that every strike can develop into revolution is utter nonsense.' What is necessary is to understand the connection between the partial steps (like strikes) and the overall struggle against the totality (capitalism). The fundamental issue in concrete terms is essentially this: that diverse groups of workers move to struggle for their rights at different times, in different ways, with diverging motivations and understandings. In these struggles, only a small minority, under normal circumstances, professes the overthrow of the system.Yet, if the liberation of the working class can only be the act of the working class itself, as Marx and Engels put it, how can this minority organise so as to become the lever that elevates the combativity of the majority? In the words of Georg Lukacs, revolutionaries separate in order to unite. They set up distinct organisations that can do battle on every front, but also insulate their members from the centrifugal pulls of complex capitalist societies. This separation of political organisation and social struggles, or party and class, opens up the possibility that the class can be'represented by a plurality of parties. Revolutionaries always seek to unite around particular struggles in order to advance the whole class struggle. Following every struggle, revolutionaries discuss what the struggle achieved and why. Only practice is the test for theory. Revolutionary socialists like Alex Callinicos of the Socialist Workers Party have coined demands that could unite many of us around a common agenda: 'Immediate cancellation of Third World debt; introduction of the Tobin Tax on international currency transactions; restoration of capital controls; introduction of universal basic income; reduction of the working week; defence of public services and renationalization of privatized industries; progressive taxation to finance public services and redistribute wealth and income; abolition of immigration controls and extension of citizenship rights; a programme to forestall environmental catastrophe; dissolution of the military-industrial complex; and defence of civil liberties.' Convinced? Join the struggle. Castro's triumph was Cuba's tragedy Annette Paceyj After nearly 50 years in power, Cuban dictator Fidel Castro has annoimced his retirement. In some ways the event is a momentous triumph for the communist revolutionaiy who seized power in 1959. He has outlasted ten US presidents and survived everything the might of the United States could throw at him, including forty-six years of crippling economic embargo, numerous CIA assassination attempts and even an ill-conceived invasion attempt. Despite the best efforts of his many opponents and the demise of communist regimes elsewhere in the world, Castro has not been forced from office, but is stepping down in a peaceful and orderly manner and at a time of his choosing. As even his critics must concede, it is a stupendous political achievement. Castro survived, but communism is dead and buried. Cuba remains one of the last bastions of left-wing ideals anywhere in the world, and the fact that it is an economic basket case held together by a vicious police state is a telling reminder of why people around the world grew disillusioned with the empty promises of socialism. From the former Soviet Union and Eastern Europe to China and Vietnam, formerly left wing regimes have been seduced by the opportunities that market capitalism provides. Granted, political freedoms have been rather slower to materialise in many cases; but releasing the strangulating grip of state-run economies and allowing the market to allocate resources has enabled millions of people to climb out of poverty and build better lives for themselves. Although left-wing ideals have fallen into serious decline around the world, defenders of socialist economic policies point to Chavez's Venezuela as an example of socialism for this century. But socialist rhetoric is merely a tool for Chavez to perpetuate his own power. Venezuela's economy is overly dependent on oil revenues; when the oil price drops the party will be over. Venezuelans, who after years of corrupt politics allowed themselves to be persuaded by Mr Chavez's promises, are becoming disillusioned. In a referendum last December they rejected his bid to change the constitution so he coixld remain in power indefinitely. For Cuba, this makes the need for reform more urgent - Cuba's ailing economy may not be propped up by Venezuelan oil dollars for much longer. The jury is still out on the precise path Cuba will take. Raul Castro, Fidel's brother, who seems likely to be named as the new president after 'temporarily' taking the reins when Castro underwent surgery in 2006, has hinted that he would favour some modest reforms. Change is sorely needed. Cubans are caught in a trap of pitifully low wages and painfully high prices for basic goods. Subsidised government rations are hopelessly inadequate, forcing many Cubans to rely on the mostly illegal informal economy. Many professionals have some kind of small scale business on the side to make ends meet; transport officials mend shoes, while engineers raise chickens and goats. Even Cuba's much proclaimed success stories, such as its health care, are facing difficulties, with shortages of medicine and equipment. It remains to be seen whether Cuba will follow a gradual process of transition or something more drastic. The US government and Cuban exiles in Florida have long anticipated the sudden collapse of Castro's regime, but this would likely cause more problems than it solves. As we all know, when the Soviet Union collapsed, market capitalism did not arrive fully formed overnight - instead, chaos reigned. What is needed in Cuba is a slow change led by democratic reforms. Castro's defiance of his many enemies for half a century was a personal triumph, but as we witness the end of an era we are also reminded of the failure of socialism to deliver on its promises. Cubans remain poor and politically repressed while others in formerly communist countries have prospered through economic freedom. Of course, capitalism comes with risks, chiefly inequality, but even its worst effects are seldom in the same league as commimism's deathly grip. Castro's Cuba is the last surviving relic of a defunct ideology, but at long last the tide seems to be turning. Notes on Nothing Ever closer Union Next year's LSE student leaders have a Union to rebuild, and a School to hold to account ^¦rtiere are not that many babies to kiss on a univer-I sity campus, but candidates' main business in ¦ this v^^eek's election v^dll still be to make v^ld promises to interest groups around the Union in the interests of shameless self-promotion. This is exactly how elections should be. However, voters - and candidates - should also reflect on what strategic vision they want for their Union and its relations with the School. After all, the institution that was set up to do this, the Union's Governance Review, has lain neglected and moribund for months. Those elected to the 2008-2009 Executive must make it their first priority to revive it. If the Union cannot get its own house in order, it will hardly deserve respect from a School that has already reneged on several promises to students on facilities, and displayed shocking incompetence in overshooting its expansion plans. The School and Union are not natural sparring partners, and it is always better when they work together. However, these failings must be pursued relentlessly. At present the Union does not have the institutional clout to do this. It is high time the Student Union recognised that a four-person Sabbatical team will never be able to muster either the time or the resolve to present a strong negotiating position to the School. Sabbaticals must be allowed to create administrative staff and advisers out of their Lent Term campaigning teams, who together wdll be able to extract the concessions students want on teaching, representation and facilities. Such delegation already occurs de facto. Since the Union cannot prevent it, it may as well bring the practice out into the open and render Sabbaticals accountable on the matter. If the Sabbatical structure needs to be strengthened, then many part-time Executive positions need to be trimmed down. With patchy attendance at Union General Meetings, taskforces and awareness weeks having become the norm during this term, part-time officers should be taken out of administration and into the formal representation role for which they were originally intended. Union politicians have deferred and deferred these necessary institution-building steps for too long. This week's winners may not be able to achieve them all next year, but it is imperative they make a start. _ ....... Joseph Cotterill Features Editor FEATURES 12 26 Februa iBeaver Joseph Cotterill explores how David Cameron is transforming convervatism -and ciianging the future of Britiish politics Beginning * - V Britain's Conservatives are not exactly setting the polls on fire at the moment. Labour's government is eleven years, a second prime minister, one bank nationalisation and very few fresh new policies into its tenure. David Cameron's New Model Tories should be doing a lot better than a nine-point lead in tallies of British public opinion. This is especially disappointing, as it is only the Conservatives now who are becoming more rather than less committed to a liberal political future for Britain, and who have the best and most innovative ideas on how to rewrite the contract between the public and their government. Two speeches made at LSE by Conservative politicians last Wednesday showed how the Tories are starting to win the battle for ideas. In his evening Oakeshott Lecture, Shadow Universities Minister and one-man think tank David Willetts tore down the frequent caricature of conservatism as a capitalist dogma hitched to an unpleasant line in social bigotry. "A free market", he argued, "can only function in a cultural and moral environment that supports it." Earlier on the same day. Shadow Attorney General Dominic Grieve spoke on a traditional conservative theme - the perils and legislative hyperactivity of big government - but with a nu-anced awareness that Britain's political parties have allowed a "sociability" deficit to accumulate among their voters. These now cite violent crime and fear for the security of their personal data above traditional policy concerns like the economy. The huge, moveable feasts of policy unveilings that have punctuated David Cameron's record as party leader have now been corralled into an "opportunity agenda," a grand-sounding programme which (in the Tories' words) has been "designed to shift power away from the state to individuals and civic institutions." The policies that make up this agenda have moreover been picked from the best practice in the Western world. Tory plans to get the long-term unemployed oft benefits and into work through training, for example, are borrowed from a successful "workfare" scheme in Wisconsin. The Dutch system of "Kraam-zorg" inspired radical (by British standards) promises to provide serious and longer post-natal care for mothers and babies. On paper at least, this looks like the Tories are going to win the sociability policy war. However, some of the hyped-up "civic conservatism"of the Tory party's new era is distinctly hypocritical. After becoming leader in December 2005, some of the first concrete policy noises David Cameron made concerned the reintroduction of national service for school leavers, as well as the radical redrafting of the 1998 Human Rights Act - one of Labour's great legislative achievements - into yet another of British constitutional history's many Bills of Rights; this time with the codification of "responsibilities" to redress a perceived imbalance in the legal licence given to rights claims by British courts. Neither policy sounds very much like setting the people "A free market can only function in a cultural and moral environment that supports it." David Willetts MP free, and more like a communitarian coercion of individuals into a particular view of society. Not much of Cameron's early, promising localist rhetoric has followed through, either. As Grieve told the story, this has some truly radical implications -the Tories might even commit themselves to locally elected police officers and judges, which would go some way to reinvigo-rating the democratic deficit and assuaging concerns about crime. However, the Tories have instead sidetracked into muscling in onto the territory of left-wing civic institutions, as in the November 2007 creation of the Conservative Co-Operative Movement. In practice, this has worked more as a middle-class foodies' buyers' collective than true grassroots democracy. The Tories' strange reinvention as a civil society conglomerate is also half finished. Institutions like the Co-Operative Movement are for now definitely more like gimmicks than serious contributions to solving Britain's serious social disconnect. At the same time, they have grovm enough to draw personnel, attention and talent away from Cameron's Opposition team, siphoning off its lust to get back into government and commence implementing its programme. Civic conservatism is also a cover for the Tories' failure to trounce the government on what were once the old economic battlegrounds of politics, and what has now become the weird, wonky and risky world of financial globalisation. The Shadow Chancellor George Osborne launched plans for a fairer system of non-domicile taxation earlier this month, but quickly had his policy clothes stolen by the government. Within weeks, the Chancellor Alistair Darling also went on to finalise contingency plans for the nationalisation of Northern Rock. Cameron and Osborne stood by and gawped instead of calling the government's bluff that taking the bank into public ownership - at immense risk to the taxpayer -was somehow a measured response to the world's recent financial turbulence. This does not change the fact that governing Britain is going depend more and more on the politics of sociabil- ity. In the meantime, however, the Tories have left their flanks open on a classic test of fitness for government, one which Labour managed to shirk last week almost scot-free. For all that, the Tories' new brand of civic conservatism should be given the benefit of the doubt. Labour's alternative model of civic engagement is much, much less attractive, especially to its natural liberal base. Gordon Brown's big idea for solving Britain's so-called identity crisis is what left-wing think tanker David Goodhart calls "progessive nationalism,"a strategy of imposing British "values" on migrants to the UK as a condition for entry. Half of what the government is doing is j sensible response to political exigencies in the here and now, such as bottlenecks in the management of mass migration. Nor are the new citizenship proposals that costly a signal to the outside world. As the government well knows, immigration from the new Eastern member states of the enlarged European Union - which dominated the last few years' surge in numbers -recently peaked; nor will most EU citizens have to face the government's tests. The other half, however, is sheer bile. Labour's weird, authoritarian brand of "progressive" nationalism was once a beautiful political theory, but it has now become ever more shop-soiled and bent out of shape as ministers change it to suit their purposes. That in itself, surely, should serve as a cautionary tale for Cameron's new Conservatives. i W . - n. Governing Britain is and more on the poli^ the meantime howe> left their flanks ope classic test of fitness one which Labour m; week almost scot-fre tyo •tuesday "the tuenty sixth of february, tyo thousand and eight from thi3 honehos hi3ri2 rant honcho ...................................> page 3 anikamathur Hates music television. She once watched the simple life and got so angiy that she threw her television out of her window on to Paris Hilton, who just happened to be passing below. How else did you think she pages 4 and 5 <-managed to stay so skinny? assistant editor........................ ravimistry Contemplates what the world would be like if the eighties had never happened. He got so into the topic that we caught him trjdng to buUd a Tardis in the corridor... we haven't seen him since... -> pages 6 and 7 ¦.................-...........limbo honcho hollieastman Is an electro whore. She is so electric that her hair actually stands on end at all times. When she met Gaiy Numan there was a genuine fear in the office that the two would explode. Read oh to find out if the lightening bolts flew... page 8 <- ...................................music honchos adamjohns and julianboys Our in tune chaps shook their stuff with Spanish peasantry this week, Franco would have dissaproved. food and drinking honcho danielbyates Examines the wild world of eating habits, be it the South Beach, the Salmon or the Satsuma diet. Remember children, eating is cheating. -> page 9 page 9 <- televison honcho ericlundquist Got beaten up crossing picket lines and lost in the fine print, but emerged with a fine strike-beard. film honcho................................... bernardkeenan Went in search of treasure and found Helen Mirren. Fair trade? He thinks so. Though she wasn't overly happy when he tried to put her in a chest. -> page 10 o page 11 <- ..................................theatre honcho tomwhittaker Found civilisation and actual celebrities in sowf London. Proving years of anthropological history wrong he found there actually is humanity south of the river. identity honcho.................................> page 1 i hodgean Has so much respect for you if you were bom in the eighties. So much that if you ^ show her your leg warmers she'll just hump them there and then. page 1Z <- gender honcho alicepfeiffer Ponders the possibility of politically correct prostistution. Is it really a viable career path? Book an appointment with the careers centre to find out today. i Misff a? Off writ ©IT'S des ired fr;ot opinions? got creative jui.ces? let as embr'a.ee yoar' flow. some and Join the i^aar'k side. write for" us. yoa will love it. and we will love yoa in retar'n. ema i 1 theoeaTrer. part b@]i: se . ag; - ak" what the hell are yoa waiting for"? do it. do it. josh heller We're exploring the eighties. That's a picture of me during the eighties. I remember them well. For me 'twas a time of no school and abundant breast milk. Then I grew up and re-lived the eighties by watching The Breakfast Club over and over and over. Thatcher is scum and that fuck-scum death scum can rot. partB continues its encouragements for you to stop applying for mind-crushing death-inducing coma-underputting internships and come and write creative stuff for us. If you don't think you'll be good enough, you're wrong, get confident stupid. We occupy a unique position at this here university as being a commentary on art that is in itself art. This is probably my last week as lone editor. Unless that Ron bloke wins the electio I shall once more hove someone to share power and credit with. What a tragic loss that shall be to my ego. Maybe you chap's will be more likely to write for portB though, knowing it isn't just me sitting up here in my tower of witticisms and cunning references. Julian's dramatic entry into the music editors position has proved a fireworks spectacular success. His interview is a lovely read and it promises much to come from Adam's young podawan. Ravi as usual produced the centrespread, staring at the screen until his eyes bled. A special thanks to Holli who's been an extraordinary amount of help as usual. Two more issues to go. I need partB, not in a small way. Sort of like the tree falling and no one hearing it. Or like Legion in that sixth season episode of Red Dwarf. Without partB I cease to exist. In other more important matters, we were victorious. I broke down as it finished, unable to control my emotions. Underneath the arch of destiny we were at the end of one rood as we turned the corner down another. We were as one. when our King^ lifted that great silver trophy aloft. The Ramos revolution continues. Come on you spurs. tuesday the tuenty sixth of february, tuo thousand and eight three ladies and gentleman^ rock and roll For those of you that are lucky enough to have a TV in your student accommodation and have managed to somehow get SKY on it. Or if you are like me and have no such luck, but only the distant memories of watching TV at home...I'm sure you are familiar with the habit of automatically switching to music channels when the lengthy adverts start which are shown during prime time. The fact that MTV schedules its adverts at the same time confirms that it has become less of a music channel and more focussed on broadcasting programmes. This leads you to more , channel surfing! which involves! trawling through! MTV's sister sta-[ tions and also the I newbies that! have popped up! like kiss and the! box. There is no! doubting that! most of us are! well into andf under the influence of the music channel. We were bom into it (well if you are a child of the 80s then you were born into it) so it is in our roots and we cannot get away from this cultural revolution which began on August 1st 1981. MTV made its debut to the world with the words 'Ladies and gentleman, rock and roll' followed by the first song to air on the channel, 'Video killed the radio star' by The Buggies (which looking back was a very ironic and apt choice). The channel launched in the eighties, swiftly making itself a household name, it reached iconic status which continued throughout the anikamathur is in a celebrity deathmatch nineties and is a significant part of teenage and young adult culture in the noughties. It's a universal language spoken across the globe, recognised worldwide, and one that forms common ground for eveiyone. I mean how else would you explain Italian exchange students breaking out into Ronan Keating 'When you say nothing at all' at Notting Hill Gate tube station?! (Yes that actually happened, there were a lot of stifled laughs on that tube carriage.) Music videos make up the foundation of MTV, from the first movie/video in the form of the 'Thriller' video to the graphic filled, action packed music videos of today. Music videos have openly been criticised for a long time as has MTV for promoting 'MTV sleaze' and the impact it has on moral culture. Music videos have evolved to distort reality and promote; sex, drugs, alcohol, guns, violence and money, to state a few. Not only that but it also promotes distorted body image, embedding dysmorphia into the brains of adolescents everywhere. It is as if there is a prerequisite checklist to making a successful video involving all of the above which has turned the music video industry into a separate entity and a big money making business. Videos have shifted from being created to promote music, to promote image and successfulness of the artist along with how much disposable cash they have. The whole industry fuels obsessive media culture. During the nineties MTV became vacuous vowltous vHcwcss tomwarren wants to spew in kate nash's mouthwash I am driven to the very ends of my wits by the age of vapidity that we seem to have segued into without complaint. What I am speaking of is our generation's ability to equate "quirkiness" or "kookiness" with genuine creative endeavour. I loathe these words: they stand for all that is anodyne, and yet seem to be wholly acceptable. Take for example the film Little Miss Sunshiae. You may disagree, but I find it almost entirely vile. It lacks the nuanced wit of Wes Anderson and seems to make do with the premise that vibrant colouring, bizarre cinematography and namechecking Proust make a good film. This awful off-kilter style is so prominent in our culture now that no creation seems to be complete without rainbows, smiling children and wholesome skinny hipsters sporting some fine woollen garments, all meticulously arranged in the child-like styles that are so favoured today. Much of the music of today also suffers from this contrived quirkiness. I want to vomit on myself when I hear Kate Nash's fragmented melodies and the idiotic phrasing of her singing. Her vocal lines judder along like an old cat with cancer and upon hearing her songs I find myself wishing naught but ill upon her. And it does not begin and end with Kate Nash and Little Miss Sunshine. This vacuous style is in our adverts, television and all aspects of our day to day existence. And this perturbs me greatly. One of the greatest problems with this style is that people have seemed to overlooked its failings. We live in an age when the youth of today are inherently risk averse and respond favourably to much that they are presented with. Thus subcultures have become tamed, and now resemble a Gap commercial of the worst kind. The vitriol of the punk generation has been given away, and in its place we have accepted the wooden nickel of the mun-dane. Much of it seems to me to be an echo of the conformity of fifties pop culture, and every time I see a twenty-something in a floral print dress grinning inanely as they taste olives at Borough Market or examine the latest tome by ' Jamie Oliver I feel a visceral need to buy amphetamines, drink heavily and vandalise, for ^ it is yet another sign that our generation are content simply to consume and plan their Ikea futures without shame or self doubt. Perhaps I envy these people, their contentment and lack of questioning, but deep down I suspect, in my usual' opinionated manner that I am right, that no good can come from a generation that aspires to little more than a carefully constructed tweeness that masquerades as cool. But it is not my own peccadilloes that form the base of my argument. It is the genuine belief that the host to the first reality shows on TV and found a niche in the TV market as it discovered a lot of its programmes such as the Real World had cult followings. This trend which began in the nineties, ended up taking over the channel as today, well into the noughties, MTV is predominantly a reality TV show hub. The list is endless, from 'Made', to 'Super Sweet Sixteen' to 'The Hills'...show after show about blonde bimbos in America who have been born into too much money. Whatever happened to the original and hilarious 'Celebrity Death Match'?! Now that was entertainment. MTV has progressed over the years into a channel which is mostly a guilty pleasure. Its like a really bad Cher song, you know its complete and utter trash, and you don't want people to know you like it but you just can't help it.... Either to combat its bad publicity, or because the (American) left wing owned channel actually cares, the reason remains unknown, MTV does attempt to promote social activism amongst its viewers. A couple of examples of their past work include promoting young people to vote, through P.Diddy's 'Vote or Die' campaign, and promoting awareness about hate crimes to tackle racism. However is this enough? Are these occasional campaigns sufficient to combat the rest of the crap that they are putting into people's heads day and night? The other negative side effect of the videos and shows that MTV promotes is that they are failing the real music artists out there. There is simply not enough air time to play videos of artists that are not commercial and don't have the funds to make videos that would make it on air. The music channel has played a huge part in making myspace what it is for music and the internet as a forum to find artists with real talent. Maybe its not long till the internet kills the video star, like the video killed the radio star. creative movement of our age is inherently stultifying and seems to lack the fire to create anything meaningful or lasting. I often reflect upon the fifties imagery that is so prominent in our culture and the manner in which it knowingly mocks the sanctity and conformity of that age. I cannot help but feeling that fifty years from now we ourselves will be rendered in much the same manner as youths snigger at the mortgage hunting, NigeUa loving automatons that our generation shall be remembered as. Is there then a way to escape the mire of such a creative abyss? I suggest that there is. Bum your woollen clothes and stop your quasi-ironic lust for baking and knitting. Next time you are at Borough Market don't buy, steal. And when you stop for a beer eschew the overpriced organic beers. Instead drink a Stella and lapse into idiocy. Further you should develop a true love of swearing and foulness, and wallow in naught but your own effluence. I can think of little else that will veer our generation away from the laboured unusu-alness that I and many around me loathe so deeply. For there are no grounds on which a laboured aesthetic based on the stylings of a low grade art student can ever be mistaken for a genuinely dynamic creativity. 8 four tuesday the twenty sixth of february, tuo thousand and eight hollieastman talks nostalgia, espionage and the boosh with gary numan We always seem to look back on the past with rose tinted glasses. For some reason the days gone by are cherished, glorified even. We speak fondly of when a pint didn't cost three pounds and a Snickers bar was still called a Marathon. Back then life was simpler. The good old days. The Eighties. "There's no such thing as over exposure on the Boosh." In 197.9 a fresh faced former fork lift truck driver from West London stormed the electro music scene, creating a new, fresh genre of electronic and synthetic pop which would last for the next thirty years. Enter Gary Numan. This year is a big year for Gary Numan. It marks the passing of two milestones in his life, his 30th year in the music industry and also his fiftieth year on the planet. So what better way, he thought, to mark the_^ passing of these two moments in his life than going back on tour? Thirty years after the release of his first album he is off and ready to hit the road again. Touring, giving something back to his fans, those who have stuck by him for all of these years, and also of course to entertain the newly collected ones. His first album was released back in March of 1979. Back then h number one fan was radio one DJ legend John Peel, who invited him to record two live sessions in the same year. The first album was released under the band name. The Tubeway Army, made up of Numan, Paul Gardier, and his uncle Jess Lidyard. Yet the band was really Gary's brain child, he composed and played everything with the exception of the bass and the drums. This will not be just some bog standard tour. This will be something for the fans, a way to say thanks, however cliche it sounds, for all of the support they have given him throughout the years. "Dwelling on the past... it's a self defeating exercise. M It's not a reunion tour for Numan. He has never stopped taking to the road throughout his career. But how does he feel about the new spate of Take That, Spice Girl self indulged reunion tours? He views them as an envi-able position, but it's not his bag. He confess-' es it's all a bit frustrating but just from a tepidly jealous point of view. "Both groups are lucky to be able to re-group and have a fan base still willing to get out there and I support them". As to whether or not it is exploitative to their fans, "well they are selling out full stadiums around the globe. If the fans didn't want the tickets they would not be buying them." The Republica album was Numan's first hit, it "Too many people let their lives pick them instead of going out there and choosing them for themselves." got it all started. Even though it was released at a time when his career was snowballing, he never did a live tour of the album. So thirty years later he is giving the fans what they missed out upon all those years ago. The tour is for the fans, and as much as he doesn't want to sound cheesy he is thankful for them for giving him his brilliant life. For him it makes sense to exclusively play Republica this tour, just the songs from the LP which launched his career and it's B sides, many of which have been heard in a long time. However Numan only wanted a tour, he didn't want a CD, DVD, T-shirt ensemble. He was wary about the relaunch getting out of control and turning into something bigger, it would be tainted. It was the record company, and not Numan himself, who were behind all the record re-releases, namely the Republicas Redux CD. Numan is very self aware of becoming one of those bog standard 'best of artists. He didn't want his fans to feel pressured into buying another CD, especially if it was one which many of his hard core fans would have bought the first time around. But anyone who listens to the CD will be pleasantly surprised at the range of tracks on the record. Numan himself feels that the label have done a good job in finding cool and interesting previously unreleased material for the hard core to enjoy and for the newbies to discover. "The world is full of really clever people, you can't go through life thinking that you're gods gift." The Eighties can be considered the hey day of the Electro pop era, the time when 'Cars' was seen as an anthem. Despite all of this Numan hates all of this nostalgia lark. He doesn't believe in dwelling on the past. "By dwelling on the past you stop opening yourself up to new experiences and influences". For him it is a self defeating exercise, you stop growing, learning, discovering new things. "What would be the point of carrying on if nothing ever changes? It would be boring." After three decades in the same industry you would expect the creative juices to dry up. So what inspires him to keep those juices flowing after all these years? Numan refuses to confine all of his inspirations into one sphere. He states that for him the world is full of clever people, so you can't just go through life thinking that you are God's gift. "We all only have a handful of ideas, each of us can only just tap the surface of it all. I hated the eighties the first time round, so why the hell would I want to relive them". For him each of us has a duty to recognize and acknowledge what inspires and influences us. "Inspiration is like having a spark in the bonfire of your brain, something that you need to keep an eye out for at all times". "I hated the eighties the first time around, why the hell would I want to relive them?" The electro-synthpop fan base is still growing. Numan attributes the influx of new fans to the reinvention and rejuvenation of his music. Every time a new artist covers his work, be it Marilyn Manson or Kurt Cobain, a new generation of listeners are exposed and encaptured. A huge range of bands and artists from the Foo Fighters, who did a cover for the X-Files, to the Sugababes, who lifted a sample from 'Are friends electric' for their 'Freak like me', have covered and sampled tracks from the Republica Album, each time making them their own. Showing that electro can be used in all spectrums of the musical rainbow. It isn't just the music industry who've shown affection for all things Numan. The frequent name dropping of the electro star in the cult comedy show the Mighty Boosh further raises his credentials amongst a new fan base. He made a cameo appearance as the Crimp, the founder of a new dance craze, in the third series of the show. Numan and Noel Fielding, one of the shows poncho donning creators and actors, go quite a way back. The pair worked together on several occasions making a podcast for The Tinies newspaper. Fielding's character in the series has a long running obsession tuesday the tyenty sixth of february, tuo thousand and eight five B. h: J ^ WSMMi with Numan and his music, to the extent that he forms his own electro-inspired mirror-ball-cat-suit wearing rock band. Numan was a fan of the Boosh since the second series and was delighted when he was asked to be on the show. Would he go back on? "Definitely, there can be no such thing as over exposure on the Boosh". As for joining the cast permanently? Well it's not something he would give up his career for. Music isn't Numan's only passion in life. Flying is the other and has lead to an equal amount of interesting experiences, such as being arrested in Thailand during an attempt to fly around the world under suspicion of smuggling and spying. The confusion was sparked by the wearing of two watches, some people just obviously don't share Numan's taste for time keeping. Though flying around the world isn't something he would attempt again, it is a challenge he feels that he has sufficiently accomplished. For him flying, especially stunt and aerobatic flying, provided a new high, a kind of exhilaration that even performing in huge stadiums can't match, but he had to give it up. "Stunt flying is just too much of a dangerous exercise". Rocket science? He confesses that he lost as many as six friends in a year whilst flying. It's not exactly a sustainable profession. His family responsibilities meant that he had others apart from himself to consider now. He tells me how his wife, who just happened to have been a former member of his fan club, used to beg him not to go every time he was on his way to the airfield, not exactly the kind of plea you can ignore if you're trying to be a responsible spouse. I ask him if he would consider Space travel as his next frontier, seeing as the whole stunt flying thing has been grounded. His biography is entitled 'Praying to Aliens' after all, so I'm sure he's keen to encounter some first hand. He says he's thought about it, although unless the new album goes double platinum his seat on the shuttle is far from secure. So looking back over the past thirty years how does he view success? For Numan it has been an ongoing battle both financially and emotionally. At the beginning the highs were immense in both senses, but in the middle of his career the financial side was failing and he nearly had to declare bankruptcy, but things have got better again. The rollercoaster has faired him pretty well and the ride has taught him a lesson or two. He speaks almost philosophically about what the journey has taught him. "Life should be about doing what you want to do, too many people settle, whether in a relationship which they get comfortable in or a job that is just so, ticking over, paying the bills, that sort of thing". Numan professes that too many people let their lives pick them instead of the other way around. "Only you can deifne your own success. It all depends on what you set out to do". I ask him if he regards his life as a success. He pauses, then gushes a heart-felt "yes". He is doing the only job he has ever wanted to do, and after thirty years in the most fickle industry out there, he is still going strong. He is now focused on being a good father to his three children, a good husband and enjoying his life. My time with Numan surprised me. For someone who has been amidst the grasp of the music industry for three decades, and who wrote a biography entitled 'Praying to Aliens' he seems amazingly untouched by the whole thing, to put it in the most cliche of terms, he is just simply apretty damn down to earth guy. I'm not going to lie, I was kind of dissapointed, I was expecting a whacked out, pompous, extra-ter-restrial loving popstar. Alas not, just a nice man named Gary. He even opens our conversation by making inappropriate innuendo about the name of our newspaper. He acknowledges that to him the music, the fame and the lifestyle aren't the important things. For him it's now his kids and his wife. Rock and Roll? I think so. The Republica Redux Album is out now. The Tour sets off in March. (,SvV,-+ , , T " S If ^ \ t .1 f ^ i, "'•J'' -n-i i. ill ¦ 't "if if ^ v- <.^5, X 4'- • ••« 4 i.v f i'i -fe . ¦I ^V| ¥. "tr §s. ilommM m" ..... A- i? .#: r 'v ft i- -5 ESV.^ .-i. .-^fr • -¦v'li .V ' • \. Macs were never invented so i^( were never invented. People in publi places actually talk to each other. Berlin Wall never torn d&vm, doors are ir^stalled instead. Scumfuck devil lady is only in power for two years. People are actually fiflnnv. Mrnrnff never higher. f Fox Network never broadcasts, V, a i ..,........ *^» «f^S -^M « •^MSSi a« » *1 "i i^^m m _* *1® ^s ¥3»» eM ¦ I^M ., ¦ •« R a serv;ce .•i -t-f•j^^Verlv-,'? "A--::f:y. ¦:-J^J£.3?^ X.-v T"fe'" ".1^51 » —1%* 'i,^^ -^Ik. *' ^ '¦»¦ / '4, • ->X: #v^ ,%i%;*c ji /¦ ' *' ." *'. See Development Month 2008 for full details. Investment twnks and explocfing offers Bank of America are the latest bank to sign up to a policy agreed with LSE Careers Sen/ice which endorses a minimum of 10 working days from receipt of offer for applicants to make up their mind. For full details and a list of those banks who endorse the policy see; Investment Banking: Careers Sectors Thinking about your career Advertising. Media, Marketing and PR Banking and Financial Sen/ices Business and Management Consulting Environment and Regeneration International development and NGQs Law Public sector. Politics and Policy Social enterprise & CSR Venture@LSECareers Applying for jobs Assessment Centres and Psychometric testing Applications CVs and Cover I Intemships & woi1< experience Job hunting Search for vacancies Volunteering The careers sectors part of the webpage is divided into the most popular industries for LSE students. The section will be very useful for your careers research as each industry's webpage has a section on news, event listings, newsletters, dates of deadlines and also presentations. Recruitment is covered in this section.In addition, there are many informative resources located in this box. For example. over letejia^ ^you can find tips for interviews, Irif^r^ews" read through CV's and applica- through CV's and application forms of LSE students. CV and careers advice appointmwents are 15 minutes long and are available from Monday to Thursday. Appointments can be booked via the My Careers Service tool You are here - Contente BI LSE Careers Service Welcome to the Careers Service If you are an employer or recruitment agency, use the Employer section If you are a current student, go to the Student section If you ha»,ne graduated from LSE, go to the Alumni section If you are a careers seaice staff member, go to the Careers Service section My Careers Service is a fantastic career tool. On the website, you can book CV checks or a careers appointment. There is also an events calendar which you can use to book places at seminars, fairs or skill sessions. Finally, there is a search tool. You can use this to either search for an internship, part- time job or a graduate job. H Tackling complicated situations with ingenuity. Just another day at the office for a high performer. I I Join Accenture, one of the world's leading management consulting, technology services and outsourcing companies, for a career that keeps you motivated and moving forward. VVbrk on vital assignments for top class clients and help them achieve high performance. Push yourself, while developing your skills and confidence. V\fork with the best people worldwide to solve problems and do what hasn't been done before. If this is your idea of a typical working day Accenture is the place to work. Graduate careers in consulting Our clients include many of the world's largest organisations and we'll prepare you to take a central role in developing innovative business and technology solutions that improve the way they operate. Professional development is a key part of the total rewards package we offer. You'll get continuous training, both formal and on-the-job, to help you tackle complicated situations with ingenuity. And you'll work on some of the largest, most challenging projects around. For people with the right intelligence and personal qualities, there's no career quite like consulting. If you're genuinely interested in business and technology, with typically a predicted or actual 2.1 and 320 UCAS points or equivalent, prepare for a future where high performance is all in a day's work. And you'll be rewarded well, with a salary of £31,000 plus an additional £10,000 bonus. Visit our website for more information on graduate careers in consulting. Accenture is committed to being an equal opportunities employer. Visit accenture.com/ukgraduates ' Consulting • Technology • Outsourcing accenture High performance. Delivered At UNITE, we wrap up all yout bills 'I"""*®'"?! acccss" within tlie price of vo"' '6"'-have just one bill to pay. Simple. WWW .unite-students.com/iondon ....................— The heart of student living 5 in public ther. Live Aid doesn't happen. Bob Geldof still pleads for money, himself. Personal computer revolution never happens. Multi-player pacmanjs all ^^the internet is sm* ^ T broad- ^ Diana ipencer never marries Prince Charles so # never becomes princess. Royal Family gets into trouble in '97 when they nezplicably kill ome woman from Norfolk. ^ Neither Empire nor Return were released. Darth Vader's no one's father, just a bully in a black suit. The Phantom Menace is released anyway. It is the most pointless film ever made... only more so. John Lennon never killed. Begins a revolution. Imagine is the world constitution. . - / i B* eight tuesday the tuenty sixth of february^ tuo thousand and eight rxAU^Q/T- i/xyhAu:J> trve^ (^/jxa/ruArv loscampesinos attack julianboys with glockenspiels There are few bands around at the moment as quirky as Los Ccimpesinos!, who are not in fact Spanish farmers as the name might suggest, but a 7 piece from Cardiff who release their debut album this month. Having gone from a pack of lowly students to a professional touring band in the time it takes most of us to get out of bed, they are now looking forward to a glittering career, at least as glittering as a group who cite cult indie-popsters Pavement as a major influence can be expected to have. PartB was honoured to meet violinist Harriet and guitarist Neil in sunny Kingston upon Thames before their gig on Thursday. Los Campesinos! are one of many bands to arise from Cardiff in the last few years, as documented on the 2006 compilation CD 'This town ain't big enough for the 22 of us', which featured 22 upcoming groups, most of whom rose no further. Neil reminisced happily, "The bands didn't have much in common with each other musically, but we were all friends. It was like a family really, people helped each other out and put on each other's gigs. It wasn't like a 'scene' as such," clarifies Harriet."Those things are always made by the media anyway". This disdain for mainstream media is a trait present among many sincere musicians and became quickly apparent in Neil, as he fumed that "I couldn't really care less about what NME thinks really, there's a lot of politics behind it I think". Could this view be in any way biased by the recent 6/10 rating given to their album by the publication?"No, haha, but we should have got more!" They were equally happy to attack the likes of Radio 1. "I don't see why there should be a monopoly in the daytime of such complete rubbish", says Harriet. This is all to be expected, though, of a band whose cooler-than-thou attitude led singer Gareth to vet those attempting to befriend them on myspace and rejecting people with the Fratellis in their musical interests section. Although this might be going a bit far, it seems unfair to lump Los Campesinos! into the quagmire of average indie bands, with few of their rivals boasting a glockenspiel, violin and melodica in their armoury. These additions came about naturally, they insist: "Gareth started out playing guitar but he felt like a bit of an idiot cos he could only play two chords. He wanted to do something else other than sing and he had a glockenspiel that he'd stolen off a school or something, so he brought it along to practise". They also have an unusual vocal style where the male and female lead singers duet on many tracks, often singing alternating lines in childlike voices which have led many to label them 'twee'. Neil was understandably unwilling to pigeon-hole the band though, saying "we're nothing more than a pop band really, its such a widespread term that you can call yourself a pop band and do what you want". The lyrical content is clearly far more important for them than many in the top 40 however, with observations like "the opposite of true love is... reality" and descriptions of "reading goose bumps like braille" accompanying many an obscure literary and musical reference on their songs. While Gareth writes the lyrics, Tom is the main songwriter: "Tom mainly just looks for stuff he can rip off that people might not have heard, I guess", Neil says deadpan, "what are you laughing at? It's true!" Harriet is keen to make it clear that they haven't pinched all their songs from other people, though: "No, Tom's just a sucker for a good melody. He writes the main song idea, then we all work on arrangements and chords and stuff, and that's how the song's put together". The main songwriter was surprisingly not among the founding members of the group. In fact the group seemed to come about almost by accident; they have often said before that they kept recruiting for the band until they couldn't afford rehearsal space. All of them were friends while at university in Cardiff. When asked to give advice for LSE students from his experiences, Neil imparted some words of wisdom, nodding sagely "you can do pretty much nothing and still get a 2:1." His shamanic abilities don't stop there however; Harriet related, in hushed tones, one of his visions. "We were at Reading festival at the end of first year, before the band had even formed, and I was talking to Neil. He was really drunk and he said 'this time next year I'm gonna be in a massively successful band' It was amazing, like a premonition". He doesn't approve of the drunken antics of others though, so watch out: "We're anti-students; that whole culture of dressing up and putting traffic cones in your bedroom. We'd go tashterbraak basks in the beauty of 30 seconds to mars out in Cardiff and see all these moronic drunken students, it's just a bit irritating. We're too cool for our own good!"Indeed. When pressed though they do admit some touch with student reality, though not directly. "We had a housemate who did a poo on a car once, I suppose we lived the student dream through him!" Several hours and a Wetherspoons curry later, the crowd are warmed up by the excellent 4 or 5 Magicians, then cooled off somewhat by the frankly awful Johnny Foreigner, who shouted at us from behind crap hair. Although both bands were chosen by Los Campesinos! to support them, the judgement of whoever chose the order must be questioned. Unless of course it was a ploy to make the headliners look better, in which case it worked admirably. The septet shambled on and set about creating a joyous cacophony, their giddy, effervescent pop translating well from record. The first single to be taken from the album, 'Death To Los ; Campesinos!', exploded delightfully into our ears with soaring jangly guitars forcing a smile : to the audience's lips (despite the fact that they were in Kingston). The childlike duet worked : charmingly, and never before has a song with death in the title been less likely to lead to exis- ; tential contemplation. The name of their next song 'International Tweecore Underground' is ' probably the closest anyone will come to defining their sound, although on the track itself the j vocals occasionally went beyond cheery and verged on the nausea inducing side of sickly sweet. After several indistinguishable and wholly forgettable album tracks the contrast between their worst and best songs was made clear by the brilliant 'You! Me! Dancing!', which had the crowd pogoing along as if someone had replaced fruit juice with Red Bull at a children's party. This was followed by 'We Throw Parties You Throw Knives', a glorious song which has nevertheless been left off the album. Harriet explained why earlier though "it was already on the EP we released, and we couldn't put them all on the album or people would think we haven't got any other songs!"It has understandably become a firm live favourite and was the high point of the show, with white noise and feedback building to a climactic crescendo which was then contrasted to great effect with the simple vocal chorus. As Los Campesinos! triumphantly left the stage it was clear that their eccentric brand of twee pop music is in favour. With enough hooks in their songs to seriously imperil the world's already overfished seas, they set off into the night to ensnare many a happily confused music fan. Los Campesinos' debut album, 'Hold On Now, Youngster'is out now I doubt there is much of a 30 Seconds to Mars following within our age-range - perhaps we were a little too late to catch on to the third wave emo/screamo scene. But this band is a beacon of light in the dark recesses of emo hearts worldwide. Anyone who has seen Requiem for a Dream will have undoubtedly noted actor Jared Leto for his portrayal of Harry Goldfarb - but who knew he could sing as well as act? Leadsinger j Leto founded the band in 1998 and his^B sex appeal has clearly been a determin-ing factor in the masses of teenage girls (making up the unofficial army known as the Echelon) who literally worship them. The gig itself played out like a cross between the coming of the Messiah, a political rally, and a rave from Hades. As the band came onstage, a white curtain shielded the instruments while Carl Orft'i operatic Carmina Burana blared through the speakers, flashing lights illuminating the concealed bandmembers' silhouettes. The cur tain dropped and a blacklight revealed them clad in all-white, Leto donning a fitted white suit and rave paint. They proceeded to perform their album A Beautiful Lie in tracklist order and Leto's voice truly astounded, pitch perfect and powerful with impeccable screaming - and truly raping all those high notes I suspected had been digitally altered. I attended knowing only a few songs of theirs, and most seemed to blend into one another, leading me to suspect recycled chord progressions (anytime one is able to imagine an entire album being played, untransposed, as a seamless medley is not a good sign). Moreover, even the lyrics seemed to overlap. Leto took plenty of time to connect with the audience, leaping into the crowd and crooning amidst a mass of screaming fans who strained to touch him as if he possessed miraculous powers, while other times he would make dubious claims such as "That was the best fucking performance of [single] The Kill...ever". He also managed to hyp-^ notise his disciples 1 into pumping their ^ fists in unison, slightly reminiscent ' 1984's "Two Minutes - except instead of' Eurasian armies, the 1 crowd is brainwashed by Leto in all [his metrosexual glory, and instead of [ Hate it is fanatical adoration. As I much as I wished to make snide ' remarks to fellow attendee Rahim, I ' couldn't help but fear that thoughtcrime ^WAS death, so instead watched silently kas Leto was pelted with white roses (an ' Echelon favourite) and glowsticks. The gig ended in equally overdramatic style, with Leto waving an oversized white flag over the audience as the hall was doused with shimmering confetti. All in all, an overplayed masquerade that very nearly managed to mask the band's unsubstantial lyrics and unoriginal tunes. Yes, some songs may be catchy - but nothing that warranted such gaudy fanfare. I only wish Leto was using his vocal ability for more worthy music, or would hang up his pseudo-rockstar shoes forever and stick to acting - regardless of how many wrists would be slit among the black-converse wearing masses in the process. of Hate images of IMte/ri iicu/nA- AAxjxJiinrui, ' !KicL^ &7V IJcLoaiu^^ ^C^UXKL r^mu/x^ a/rvcL ' Wa/nl ^RxxJi, ( rru/x^ adamjohns Zombie Disco Squad are national treasures. They DJ a brilliant blend of electro and global dance musics (biaile funk, Baltimore club) and do it in an engaging and entertaining way without even a bit of cheese involved. Also they are really, really hip. Until now, listening to their stuff meant going some- : where in Hackney and having to spend the whole night dealing with the inadequacy of your wardrobe. Not any more, though. Now you can download this smashing remix and hour-long mixtape (a quick google search should dig them up) and get all the fun of Zombie Disco Squad without having your haircut criticized by a cockney lesbian bouncer with pink hair, in a club that smells like ' balls. ^luM- 8 - ShjUy ^o^uicLrvt 3)7 JTiiAxrmAmA^ gregorulm Life as a critic can be tough, as repeatedly listening to sub-par records is a sure fire way to make you pop Prozac at regular intervals. On very rare occasions though, a real gem lands on your desk. I have not heard of Club 8 before, and apart from a rather sparse Wikipedia entry I am tempted to infer that I am not the only one in this respect. But it doesn't really matter - it actually makes things better. As a matter of fact, their latest release "The Boy Who Couldn't Stop Dreaming" is one of the most pleasant surprises this year has brought so far. Instead of skipping track after track, I felt compelled to listen to the album in its entirety. Truth be told, the lyrics are slightly on the bland side: "If I come around, safe and sound / maybe we can fool around", but ^ the melodies aren't. Happy sing-alongs by an angelic voice, what else could one ask for on a frosty winter night? Suddenly, there were butterflies all around me, and all the surrounding colours V became more vibrant. I felt so alive. It's a great record, but please disengage your brain while listening to it. _g tuesday the tuenty sixth of february tyo thousand and eight nine A Steady Diet oi TMotliiiijtf danielbyates eqnates moral worth with fat cells eq We spend money time and thought tweaking our lumpen forms into semblances of air-brushed impossibility. Monitoring, counting, scheming, we ruthlessly calibrate tiny shades of our body's curvature, seeking precision effects, revelling in the narcissism of minor differences, envisaging beauty as a matter of millimetres. This aesthetic poverty is usually supplemented by crypto-fascist ideas of healthy-functioning body-machines, marching into a pain and death-free future. Obviously I don't care because I look great, feel great and am unlikely to ever . - r die. However if you are not as blessed as me, and insist on being middle-manager to a body-mechanism that is doomed and degenerative, then here are some ways to go about it... Tlic Atkins A laudable attempt to subvert scientific fact, probably not much else. If I've read the literature correctly your body gets so happy on cheese that you breathe out fat. Day one was fine, I ate two steaks covered in cheese and drank twelve milkshakes. I did something similar on day two. On day three I got spots in my vision, couldn't see and passed out in the street twice. Final Verdict: Great and all, but I got fatter. Beware the Atkins Fallout on day three - make preparations as if a thermonuclear war inside your body was imminent and you have a chance of coming out the other side. Sardine Du-t The book Sardine Diet does include some non-sardine items. However, as the name might suggest, it does rely heavily on an oily little fish. I saw a documentary once where a man lived in a freezer and ate nothing but fish. He was a scientist, and still he nearly died. Final Verdict: Okay if you like stinking of fish. Stay away from Piranhas as they are relatively fattening. 'Likin^^ Fofxl There are legions of clinical hypnotherapists out there, all armed with the latest in stopwatches and funny eyes, ready to convince your subconscious mind that food is not actually necessary to sustain life. A spokesperson for Hypnocharm, a hypnotherapy clinic in West London, told me "For the more extreme cases we can get people to spend their life on missions to destroy food. One patient we had bit Bernard Matthews in the face. This is an experimental science." Final Verdict: I think it's probably not very good. The '¦X'^apuluy Did Cocaine is the only foodstuff allowable on this diet. Variation is fac-tored-in once a week when you are allowed to look at a half-full champagne flute from a distance of 4 metres. You are encouraged to spend as much time as possible in top-end nightclubs, talking inane bollocks. Remember, for every 400 words uttered on the subject of tanning you lose 0.3 calories. Final Verdict: It's a lifestyle thing. Not for the poor Aiioi'cxia If you're psychologically damaged you may well want to try the pro-ana route. It invariably ends in mortification. If you want to be one of the saddest things you have ever seen, go for it. Probably most useful as a guide to the evils of western society and for identifying those in urgent need of our help. Final Verdict: Loses points for being a serious societal ill. .'WfUsiii There are plenty of theological strains of thought lying around that look to deny the fact of the body's existence. Pick one up and run. Preferably to a cave. If you stop eating totally there's always the chance you will have an ecstatic vision and found a new world religion - bonus feature. Final Verdict: Theologically-guaranteed. Ultimate. TIk" Head oi) a Pike Diet. So named because after a few months on the regime your body comes to look like a head on stick, thus turning you into a salutary warning for other Londoners. There has been some talk amongst hard-line supporters of Boris Johnson's mayoral campaign that these people might be 'parboiled' and installed on London Bridge, as part of his traditional stance on Law and Order and as a warning to Johnny Foreigner. Final Verdict: Worked for Thomas More and John Fisher, became Saints - and that's Hot. aternieloii dicl They Involves strapping watermelons to your midriff and carrying them for up to a month. In the event of their taking off you feel so liberated and suddenly-svelte that the confidence and self-esteem you yearn for flows into you like melon juice down a child's chin. At that moment your craven weight-anxieties disappear and you fall in love. Final Verdict: Back trouble is a probability. Beauty is guaranteed. ^M.r \9l<*}t IS Iio-e to fXLj alx)Ut Reese Witherspoon reportedly eats baby-food with "alongside at least one grown up meal a day". Mariah Carey likes "purple foods" and Dr. Fox won't eat anything "yellow". Madonna poaches eggs in her own urine, Oprah Winfrey routinely subjects herself to the "scag bouncer" (a yo-yo diet of severe extremity) whilst Elton John likes to climb inside a boiled Panda and eat it from the inside out. I know from my experience working in PR that Billie Piper only hires her people on the basis of their physical capacity to store nuts. The cartoonish behaviours of celebrity diet routines fill our papers daily, and we rejoice in the staggering lunacy of what we find in there. But as we are laughing at these jesters, we are also quietly partaking of a more sombre version of the same insanity, placing ourselves in the mechanical and industrial web of the diet industry, enmeshing ourselves in the stultifying myths of beauty, control and a conception of moral-worth based on fat-cells. The obscene figures of celebrity excess come to legitimate our own madness, reflecting back a hyper-real and rejectable version of it. In demanding from us moderation the normal is constituted as something the same but less. Celebrities are the mannequin-patients upon which we can externalise the madnesses of a decadent culture, whilst denying that we ourselves are ill also. s 11"' i k 2 ericlundquist explains the writers strike thiat no one really understands Twenty years is a long time. Longer than cricket test-match, longer than many of you have lived. Although most remember the days of MC Hammer and Margaret Thatcher, few recall that 1988 also marked the last Writers Guild of America strike, the longest in history. What started as cordial contract negotiations over re-run and VHS residuals—or payments made to a work's creator for subsequent screenings or profits—unexpectedly snowballed into a 23 week debacle from which neither side emerged victorious. The strike cancelled an entire season of television, left tens of thousands of entertainment workers unemployed, and saw audiences decline across the board by 10%, some never to return. The season finale of Star Trek: The Next Generation was reduced to a stale pastiche of recycled clips from previous episodes, consistently voted by fans the nadir in the series' 40-year history. Alas, gone are the days of watching Raiders of the Lost Arc on the new VHS player after the six o'clock news broadcasts Ronald Reagan firing 11,000 striking work-: ers and jailing union leaders. We now get! our video on a Blu-Ray disc, out of a Netflix envelope, through an itunes download, or a simple web-stream. The rise of these legal "new media" video sources demands questions about how creators should be compensated when old rules of remuneration apply less and less to a changing market. These questions turned into formal negotiations as WGA contracts came up for renegotiation, with the 10,000-member union determined to address old grievances and secure a future in new media. Across the table sat the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP), who negotiate labour con-tracts with over 80 industry guilds on behalf of virtually all major American networks and production companies. Eveiy three years the two organizations meet to hash out a Minimum Basic Agreement contract, which as the name suggests sets lower bounds on compensation and conditions to which all professional contracts must then adhere. Remuneration rules depend on various criteria, including but not limited to program type, media classification, length, and budget. The WGA brought three major demands to the table in July: increased residuals from DVD home video sales; jurisdiction and residual compensation for online digital video streaming and electronic sell-through (one-time purchased file downloads); and jurisdiction over [animated and so-called "reality television" programs. Two months of unproductive I negotiations witnessed a proposed study on the profitability of internet media, and a new system of post-production cost calculation of residuals. The AMPTP proved [unwilling to yield on the key issues of internet residuals and the DVD rate, whilst the WGA remained intractable in its original demands. Both sides walked away from negotiations frustrated as contracts expired, with the WGA members voting to authorize a strike on October 22nd, formally begun on November 5th. After the picket lines formed in Los Angeles and New York, each side took their case to the public—with the AMPTP showering money on newspaper and televi-[sion messages, and the WGA largely using online blogs, pub-jlic demonstrations, and Youtube videos. Especially after ; early December talks collapsed in acrimony, public opinion ^ rested in favour of the writers. Key political figures including Barack Obama endorsed the strike, while many other entertainment unions stood in solidarity, leading to the can-cellation of the prestigious Golden Globe award ceremony. SOLIDARITY WITH Studios By mid-December production on all but two non-reality prime-time series had grinded to a halt, with networks announcing major layoffs and shifts to new unscripted programming. The collapse also caused late night hosts like Leno, Letterman, and Jon Stewart to return to the air without WGA writers, citing an unwillingness to fire their non-writing staff. Many assumed that the producers stalled in order to dispose of unwanted contracts through force-majeure, and strengthen their bargaining position after negotiating a sparser deal with the more pliable Directors Guild of America. In early February, secret negotiations finally yielded terms both sides could accept, with WGA leaders announcing they had reached a tentative deal with studio heads February 9th. Three days later, union members voted 92,5% in favor to end the strike. The new contract sees, among other changes, the WGA gaining exclusive bargaining over professional new media writing, securing broadcast rights and minimum payments based on program type and length; residuals shall be paid to writers for both internet streaming and electronic sell-through; and no-strike clauses; and very little change to existing DVD residuals or "reality tv" jurisdiction. So who won? Time will tell on that one, with internet profitability still far behind traditional television and DVD and the studios unscathed in those departments. Although most writers favour the new contract, many still dissent. The networks have hinted they will no longer pay huge up-front sums for pilot writing that may never materialize; the strike's aftermath could fundamentally change the nature of television contracts in the future. Most estimates put the strike's cost at $2.5 billion to the entertainment industry, with spiral-ing losses far beyond that for the rest of the economy—as viewers, let's hope it was all worth it. B. ten tuesday the tuenty sixth of february tuo thousand and eight i Gcxxl People of theThree Gorges Still Life is quite simply one of the most beautiful and astonishing films I have ever seen. Made in 2006 and currently showing at the BFI, it is set in the ancient Chinese town of Fengjie, which is slowly being flooded by the Yangtze river as part of the construction of the Three Gorges Dam. Into this dying city come two protagonists, and through their stories we observe the embers of the lives of the ordinary Chinese people struggling to cope with forces beyond their control. Han Sanming is a miner from Shanxi, far off to the North, a man searching for the 'mail-order bride' who left him sixteen years before, taking their baby daughter. While searching, he takes a job with a demolition team breaking dovra the city to recycle the rubble and clear the soon-to-be submerged space for shipping. The woman, Shen Hong, is a mid-dleclass woman moving in a different circle, looking for her estranged husband to ask for a divorce. Their experiences are parallel, linked by the appearance of a UFO over the water. The UFO is just one of the surreal moments throughout the film. In director Jia Zhangke China has found its own Tarkovsky. Like Tarkovsky, Zhangke understands how cinema can slow time down, finding poetry in simple moments of human togetherness. The film is divided into four chapters -'Cigarettes', 'Liquor', 'Tea' and 'Toffee' - these are the everyday items that are foregrounded, enframed by the otherworldly moments, such as a distant building suddenly collapsing, a new bridge unexpectedly illuminated at night. In this way it is an antidote to the usual bland Hollywood formula, which uses predictable, unrealistic human relationships to frame idiotic plot devices. The characters are believable, closely observed as they witness this strange anomie and make new friends. It is this ordinariness that enhances the strange, alien situation they find themselves in. This film should not be missed by anyone interested in cinema or indeed the future of the planet. It is a rare look into the ordinary lives of Chinese people living through extraordinary times. The philosopher Slavoj Zizek, in expressing his admiration for the film, commented that it gives him hope for China, as this film was partly funded by the state despite its frank depiction of the environmental and human cost "of bernardkeenan says Still Life offers the West a chance to think differently about China progress. But it's the understated performances of the cast, the simple moments of humour, and the emotional restraint and dignity of the people that stick. When Shen Hong finally meets I her husband, they stand apart from one another, the dam in I the background. The moment she asks for a divorce, the gates I open and torrents of water come pouring out, passing] through him as he calmly asks her if she is sure. Love and Rememberence euniceng is moved to tears by Sarah Polly's directorial debut I don't quite remember when I last cried in a movie. Maybe it was during The Pianist, during that scene where Adiien Brody's character plays for a Nazi officer. Maybe it was during Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, during the scene where Joel tells his fast fading memory of his girlfriend that there are a lot of things he wishes he- could have done. I don't remember. As a general rule, crying during movies is reserved for saps and the clinically depressed. But I definitely don't remember crying this much during a movie. Away From Her is the directorial debut from Canadian actress Sareih PoUey, based on the short story The Bear Came Over the Mountain by acclaimed writer Alice Munro. It stars Julie Christie and Gordon Pisent as aging couple Fiona and Grant. They've been married for forty five years, and during those years have almost never been apart. It's all about to change, however. Fiona has just been diagnosed with Alzheimer's. Against Grant's wishes, she requests to be checked into the Meadowlake old age home. As per the institution's rules, no one, not even family members, can visit new residents for thirty days. After going through the longest separation from his wife that he's ever experienced. Grant returns to Meadowlake to discover that Fiona's Alzheimer's has progressed to a point where she doesn't remember him, and where she's slowly falling in love with Aubrey, a mute fellow resident. And so begins Grant's long journey to win his wife back. He comes so often to the home that some visitors mistake him for a resident of the home. He brings flowers and books, even when Aubrey leaves, sending Fiona into a depression. The film excels because of many things. As far as the Fool's Gold For some, "A Jerry Bruckheimer Production" is synonymous with two hours of blissful action and riveting entertainment coupled with mouthfuls of popcorn, also known as Top Gun. For others, the man is no less than the antichrist. Now, whichever category you belong in (probably the first one if you are still reading this), you could probably admit that when it comes to cinema and television entertainment, everything^ Jerry Bruckheimer touches^ seems to inevitably turn^ into gold, or even better,^ into a box office hit. How' does one become a blockbuster^ mogul? It turns out I got a few'l tips from the man himself as welll as the rest of a cast including^ Nicolas Cage, for the release^ of his newest flick, the^ second opus of the^ National Treasure' franchise - Nationaf Treasure: Book oi Secrets. And, e importantly, I got to| meet Diane Kruger. The first National Treasure' had successfully exploited the genre" brought back to life by the success of DarT" Brown's Da Vinci Code, creating a fun family film despite" some obvious shorcomings regarding acting and plot credibility. Nicolas Cage played Benjamin Gates, a rejected scholar in the search of an esoteric treasure from clues hidden in screenplay is concerned, it could have done more the story behind Grant and Fionas' relationship. It could also have done a little more to^ show what Grant and Fionas' married life was like before she got diagnosed with Alzheimer's, and could have cut some^ of Grant's scenes where he waxes poetic about how much he cares Fiona. But what is onscreen is breathtakingly beautiful. Sarah PoUey has an eye natural light, and for the way it colors the rich] Canadian rockies landscape where the unfolds. The opening scene, which has Grant and Fiona doing cross coun- /i. try skiing out- ! s side the cot-/^^^ tage where, she grew up^ looks exactly like one^ would imagine snow on a winter's day. to explain There's a tenderness about the movie's entire landscape -I from the snow to the unruly cottage to the very benignl Meadowlake institution - that seems befitting of the story,! which has an overriding theme of the longevity of marriage! and the curious, quiet nature of growing old. It's a wonder-l ful homage to Alice Munro, who's been praised as one ofl ** Canada's greatest living writers. The main reason I was crying though, was due to the| acting. Julie Christie deserves the Oscar nomination for her performance. She makes Fiona at once witty and| , .demure, 'sweet and ironic', as Grant describes Fiona in ^the film. She makes Fiona's degeneration into the fur-; Ither stages of Alzheimer's even more heartbreaking to| watch. Gorden Pinsent is perfectly cast as Grant and exudesj a quiet desperation and a touching devotion throughout the film. The two of them are well complemented by a host ofl supporting characters - Olympias Dukakis as Aubrey's wifel Marian and Kristen Thomsen as Kristy, a nurse who becomes! Grant's confidante of sorts while he copes with Fiona's insti-| tutionalization. There are no pretentions or overwrought! emotion in this story, though there are many opportuni-| ties for it to be. In a year where the critically acclaimed films have! been highly charged affairs, fraught with violence,! artificial witticisms or historical metafiction,!" Away From Her is a refreshing, lovely piece that! deals with issues mainstream movies usually! overlook - aging and the trials of sustaining love.I nicolosfermfnet is in search of treasure different S3Tnbols of the American Revolution (Declaration of Independence, Liberty Bell and all that jazz). The movie was a commercial hit. As the man who once stated that if he made films for the critics, he'd be living in a small Hollywood apartment, Jerry Bruckheimer set the record straight from the onset: the public is the key to creating his movies, "you have to give them what they want to see." The equation becomes surprisingly simple, and The Book of Secrets indeed copies every tricks of the trade used in the first film, to the point where sometimes-witty sidekick Riley Poole (Justin Bartha) ironically remarks: "Of course someone is after the treasure, it's the axiom of treasure hunting". This time, Gates's hunt begins from the missing pages of the diary of John Wilkes Booth, the assassin of Abraham Lincoln, and takes him around the word in a quest to find another treasure and restore his ancestor's legacy, accused of participating in the assassination. The cast of the film remains very impressive, and Cage, Kruger, and John Voight are this time joined by no other than Ed Harris and our very own Helen Mirren. As the characters hop from Paris to Mount Rushmore (North by Northwest anyone?) while stopping at the White House and Buckingham Palace, the locations become even more extravagant than the cast. The result is a series of fairly amusing European stereotypes pvmctuating the action, from a Firench policeman quoting Montesquieu to references to British drinking culture, including kegs of Fuller's London Pride tumbling down the busy streets of London Town. The direction is very standard for a movie of this calibre, with some quite upbeat action including a car chase, a presidential kidnapping, and an impressive 'Indiana-Jonesque' finale. What about the history? According to John Turtletaub, teachers contacted him after the first film to express thanks for stimulating their students' interest in history, and Nicolas Cage added that making these family movies was important to him, especially for their historical insight. This is really where the one and only real strength of the National Treasure franchise lies. The clues are often ludicrous and incomprehensible, removing any slim possibility of intellectual contributions from the spectator, and Cage and others are not necessarily convincing in their portrayal of geeky adult Goonies. Nevertheless, in the same way that Dan Brown had caused turmoil by basing his work on well-known cultural icons, the writers have seasoned their plot with clever historical trivia, adding extra spice to an otherwise pretty unoriginal entertainment flick. Many viewers will probably be interested to "google" these different facts, giving the film a certain unexpected life of its own. Like its predecessor, the result is a ftin entertaining family movie, which to be honest, is the ultimate "Jerry Bruckheimer Production" trademark. What remains disappointing is the lack of irmovation between the two films. It is aU very nice that a producer claims he is taking oiu" interests at heart by wanting to give us what we want to see. In the past, Jerry Bruckheimer had already been able to revive other lost genres, from fighter pilot to pirate films. However, when the result becomes a redundant franchise (without giving anything away, a third film is hinted at the end of Book \ of Secrets), one begins to feel a little like a cherished cash cow. National Tresure 2 is now in cinemas tuesday the tuenty sixth of february two thousand and eight eleven Hollow in Hollywood what's that name? it's mr plow, naeemkapadia again, it's Speed-the-Plow The Old Vic has presented a truly stunning season this year and its latest production, a snazzy 20th anniversary revival of David Mamet's 1988 play Speed-the-Plow, adds yet another feather to its very dignified cap. Artistic Director and veteran actor Kevin Spacey is joined by the charismatic Jeff Goldblum for an unforgettable night of brash, brusque banter, the way Mamet does it best. David Mamet ranks amongst the very small handful of playwrights who has not only successfully made the transition from writing stage plays to screenplays but has also enjoyed considerable success as a director in Hollywood over the past two decades. In many ways then, Speed-the-Plow is his tribute to this incredible world of movie-making that we all love to hate and the eternal conflict of art versus money. It is perhaps apposite that Spacey and Goldblum, both seasoned actors on the silver screen, catapult us into this glamorous world of Hollywood bigwigs about two movie producers debating over the next big- summer blockbuster and a chance to make a cartload of , money. Kevin Spacey, last seen on the London stage in A Moon for the Misbegotten at the Old Vic, is in top form as junior producer Charlie Fox. His enthusiasm at having closed a deal with a famous actor and luring him away from a rival studio realises itself at the start in childish and effeminate bursts of delight. Indeed, his energy seems so utterly boundless that it's difficult to take one's eyes off him for even a second. Spacey's deft transition from deferential eager-beaver to vindictive money-worshipper is sustained superbly and never leaves us in any doubt of the essential humanness of his character. Jeff Goldblum strikes an imposing figure as newly-promoted senior producer Bobby (jould. Sauntering about in a tight white shirt and equally fitting suit, he oozes charm as he chews idly on his cigar and looks so tall that he appears to be drifting around in stilts. The banter between the men is first-rate and Mamet's trademark rapid-fire dialogue and staccato retorts are delivered with an intensity that makes it quite impossible to pause for breath. Into this male world steps an idealistic temporary secretary, Karen (Laura Michelle Kelly). Kelly is perhaps the Achilles' heel of the play. It seems rather unfortunate that she opts to play Karen as a bright-eyed ingenue from beginning to end rather than combining it with the trite but oh-so-effective hint of the smouldering temptress (this, in a role created by Madonna in the original Broadway production, seems rather sacrilegious!) as she is quizzed relentlessly by the men and later tries to persuade Gould to make an existentialist picture rather than another mindless blockbuster. Kelly's English accent also seems incongruous and it's rather disappointing that she did not make more of an effort to sound American. She would have thrived if she had caricatured Karen but her earnest naivete and plodding goodwill make the character's contributions seem rather superfluous. Matthew Warchus, hot off the heels from his acclaimed stage adaptation of The Lord of the Rings, does a commendable job with the direction, making Mamet's dialogue glide effortlessly from delightfully comic to razor-sharp. He is clever in his use of space and has the men alternately poised in extreme corners and standing centrestage, blending quiet intensity with vibrant showmanship. However, the pace dips considerably in the languid second scene between Goldblum and Kelly, a fact not enhanced by the persistence of several lengthy monologues that could have done with tighter editing. The effects also seem rather contrived at times - a glass is hurled with great force to the sound of a very feeble crash offstage and the fight between the men seems slightly overdone. Rather than running continuously, having an interval would have been an effective device to galvanise the audience (there is a nice bar after all) for the thrilling denouement of the play. Nonetheless, Rob Howell's excellent set - all bright lights and high ceilings - complement the action and lend an aura of power to the energetic exchanges. Speed-the-Plow is very clearly Spacey's show and arguably one of his best stage performances to date. He carries the play magnificently from start to end and his chemistry with Goldblum is utterly compelling. Like so many other plays in Mamet's impressive oeuvre, Speed-the-Plow offers us an insight into the shallowness of yet another aspect of the American con-sumerist culture - the movie-making world. As Charlie Fox memorably declares, "Life in the movie business is like the beginning of a new romance -it's full of surprises and you're constantly getting fucked." Indeed, one cannot agree more. 1^^ thinks the 80s are forever has love for you if you were born in the 80s i X omo Eighticus was a mistake in L—I J § the gallery of fashion evolution. One of those specimen which surely made sense at the time, but which, looking back, are an enigma. We all know some Homo Eighticus. Actually our parents and lecturers are quite likely to have been one at one point or another. They lived in a different galaxy. A galaxy where white stilettos under velvety tracksuits were "hype". A galaxy rythmed by Madonna, Bananarama and Tina Turner. In the morning, Mr and Mrs Homo Eighticus fought over the jar of gel. It was all about straighter than straight hair. Mrs Homo Eighticus watched far too much Dynasty. Linda Evans became her fashion icon. She looked good in shoulder pads. Mrs Homo Eighticus, who was trying to break the glass roof, decided to embrace power dressing as well. She didn't look that good in padded shoulders. Come to think of it, nobody does in real life. Coming back from the office, Mrs Homo Eighticus would put on an aerobic video of Jane Fonda. Being also a fan of Flashdance, she fell in love with leotards, leggings, bare shoulders and leg warmers. On weekends, the whole Homo Eighticus family packed their green wellies and desert boots and headed off to the countryside. Mrs Homo Eighticus read fashion magazine. Back then, Vogue was edited by Anna Wintour and Harpers Bazzar was still Hapers & Queen. Homo Eighticus dreamt of fairy tales. In 1981, she was stuck in front of her TV watching "the wedding of the century". She fell in love with a meringue-like dress. Homo Eighticus was ready to Di for anything worn by the Princess of Wales. The Emanuels, Jacques Azagury and Catherine Walker, became some of her favourite designers. On the other side of the Channel, she loved Thierry Mugler and Azzedine Alaia. Homo Eighticus is now twenty^ years older. She may, have a new name. But' she still loves leg warmers, leggings, and worships Nicolas^ Ghesquiere padded jackets. H o m Eighticus has' changed. ^ clothes she wears^^ not so much. %' y ou've got to love the 80s, I mean no decade is better for fashion than the big 8-0. It is probably also one of the favourite themes for girls to dress up in, well...apart from the Jesus theme which always gets the party started. There is also a saying that, fashion always comes back around, and it doesn't always have to be vintage- and in the spring/summer collections the 80s theme can be spotted everywhere...shall I give you some little hints and clues???? No you don't need to wear shoulder pads or use volume ^mousse, but do get amiliar with the high waist. It has been ¦trendy for quite a while now, but as the 80s showed, clinching in the waist from jeans to shorts is a definite fashion success. It shows your curves and is the ultimate power dressing, which is what the 80s was all about. As the 80s successfully showed, denim is all the rage but make sure you make it light. Put the dark colours on hold and bring out the softness in you, whether it be a |light denim jacket, a denim dress and ofcourse denim jeans, as long as it is pale, ripped and punk, you know you are on the right track. Yes nu-rave was so the 'cool' thing to be last year, but the indie theme still seems to cling on to the fashion scene. 80s inspired high tops can still add a bit of kookiness to your outfit. Nike, Adidas, Reebok, you name it, the major brands are adding a touch of the 80s to their trainers which go perfectly with your leggings, skinny jeans and a leather jacket- watch The Goomes and you will know what I'm talking about. High powered tailored jackets was seen everywhere on the catwalk- it's about looking fierce, from Yves Saint Laurent, Jil Sander and Calvin Klein, these wide shouldered, tailored jackets scream out attention, and the "don't mess with me" kind of authority. Men won't dare be acting smart with you once you adopt the 80s inspired power dressing. Polka dots, stars and stripes have busted on to the fashion scene with energy, polka dots adds a feminine touch with the retro 80s style, and if you really want the 'wow' factor, go for the super-size polka dots. Gold accessories and clutch bags, are so 80s and so fabulous and so fashion cool, but make sure the gold is on the right side of chav. Be bold and proud with your accesories, the 80s loved gold and so should you. Big bags are out and practicality is back with colourful, easy-to-hold clutch bags- designers have become really creative with the shapes, and leather and there are so many to choose from. So no longer need you watch Fame for 80s inpiration- just look towards the catwalk and maybe a touch of shoulder pads... tuesday the twenty sixth of february, two thousand and eight twelve some more equal than others alicepfieffer ponders the practicalities of prostitution as a career path y now, you must have all heard of the infa-mous Steve Wright: last friday, this man from Suffolk was found guilty of the gruesome murder of 5 sex workers ('prostitute', 1 have been informed, is now politically incorrect), and was sentenced to life. The forklift truck driver was a quiet man married to a Czech woman; he was said to enjoy a pint or two and occasionally playing golf. He had been leading a double life for several years: his wife worked night shifts at a call centre; he dropped her off at work every evening and would then head to the red light district of Ipswich, close to his house- something he claimed to be unaware of before moving in. He was a regular, and was known by all the prostitutes. His wife was unaware of her husband's activities. She only found out about his night-time habits after his arrest but refused to believe it until the end. All the crimes occurred over a period of 6 weeks. Wright did not alwaysj have intercourse with the women before killing them; most of them were choked to death, their bodies were then stripped and abandoned. Two of them were placed in a crucifix position. It was revealed that the girls were too heavily on drugs to fight back. The events have been compared to the case of| Peter Sutcliffe, nicknamed the 'Yorkshire Ripper' in the 70s, who was found to have murdered 13 sex workers around northern England. From Jack the Ripper to Steve Wright today, the figure of the prostitute murderer is a recurrent allegory of| evil, much enjoyed by the tabloids for its morbid entertainment value. In all cases, the press mentioned a violent childhood, an abusive father. Sutcliffe was beaten by his father throughout: his childhood, as well as his siblings and mother. Wright was said to have been abandoned by his mother and was raised by a violent alcoholic father. Prior to the murders, both criminals were reported to have a tendency towards misogynistic acts, violent sex, and general abusive behaviour towards women. While it is natural to try to understand the trigger for such an act, it is also problematic for several reasons. First it suggests that their is a reason, a possible explanation for such a act, somewhat de-responsabilizing them- not in the eyes of the law of course; but to blame someone's upbringing, considering it is a consequence to their current madness, suggests that they are victims of their traumas. Secondly, the focus on these dramatic, sensationalist case creates a diversion from the everyday risk, violence and regular rapes prostitutes endure. Indeed, most rapes go un-followed or unreported. Prostitutes fear they will 'get in trouble' for their activity while reporting the incident, or not to be taken seriously. In the case of a prostitute (sorry, 'sex-worker'!), shouldn't her status as victim of a violent act be a priority? To what extent should one overlook the high risk and illegality of the everyday lifestyle if the rape is an outcome of it?Yes, prostitutes are 40 time more likely to endure a violent death or rape than other women, but does this remove the government's responsibility of protection? There are two dominant, opposing frames of thought. On one hand, one can argue that -utopical-ly speaking- prostitution should be inexistent, and therefore every government should strive to suppress it. Sweden criminalises men going to prostitutes. rather than simply arrest and fine the sex workers. In Scandinavia, it is no longer viewed as an acceptable exchange between two people, but the perpetuation of an industry encouraging violence against women. In that case, where does the issue lie? In the exchange itself or in the possibly violent acts it might lead to? On the other hand, one can argue that prostitution is, unfortunately, a recurring happening throughout the ages and the continents. Indeed, it is said to be one of the oldest 'professions' of the world and criminalising it will not stop it from occurring- it would simply be better concealed, putting the girls in even more risks, stopping the possible ways out of it, the social helps etc. New Zealand offers an alternative to the Swedish model: it decriminalised it in order to be able to openly protect prostitutes, to strive towards "sex workers' human rights, protection from exploitation and promotion of occupational health and safety"- Most countries today offer anonymous centres, therapists and counselling, but the legal aspect is frightening to many sex-workers, who think they are at risk for declaring their activities- further enhanced because of the high use of illegal drugs by 95% of prostitutes around Europe. Another aspect that is symptomatic of the contemporary views on prostitution is the way popular media presented the cases. To what extent were they treated differently by the law and the media because of their profession? The tabloids, referred to them not as victims who happen to be prostitutes but rather as 'hookers', as an independent identity. Headlines read 'Fears for Hookers', 'Ripper murder strikes fear for vice girls'. Of course, the girls' relation to Wright led to their deaths: while their encounter resulted in their assassinations, in no way does one explain nor justify the other. But to what extent was this clarified by the papers? Did The Sun or The Mirror, covertly, leven unconsciously suggest, through terms such as 'women of vice' that they didn't deserve a full victim [status for their choice of lifestyle? Italian theorist Giorgio Agamben describes the 'Homo Sacer', the 'sacred' man/woman, as an exile from law, a 'worthless' individual in juridical terms, who can be 'killed but not sacrificed'. Agamben gives the example of prostitutes, who are more or less ignored by laws of social justice, lor not given fair consideration, given a 'semi-citizen' status. Today, is this what had happened to sex-workers? I'm not saying that prostitution should be accepted as any other job, but their • treatment as individuals shouldn't be affected by their personal choices. While governments unwillingly accept that they exist, they are partially ignored or given less consideration. But is there ever a solution? Can or should a legal system allow prostitution? Where does the issue truly lie? Can a government forbid a woman's right to chose what she does with her body? Back to the Wright case, no paper stated this issue explicitly, yet the women were designated by their activity, rather than women with a certain choice of life. On the other hand, the alternative, the politically correct 'sex worker' is problematic too. Many were outraged by the use of the word 'prostitute' in the media. The law emphasised this correctness aspect-as this suggests that prostitution is a genuine career choice, just like dentistry or nursing. Women turning to prostitution, in most cases for drugs, are in financial despair. This is where the issue lies: how does a government avoid individuals reaching such a low? The debate is endless. leaver 26 Februa FEATURES ^6/1 Britain is going depend more n the politics of sociability. In me however, the Tories have lanks open on economics - a of fitness for government, and Labour managed to shirk last it scot-free WELL-READ STATESMAN THE POLITICAL THEORIES THAT ARE DRIVING BRITAIN'S GOVERNANCE DEBATE NATURAL JUSTICE Ken Binmore, Natural Justice New York, 2005 David Willetts name-dropped this book in his LSE lecture. Btnmore weaves a dense web of 'Veciprocal altruism" as the basis for society, rather than giving the credit to state structures Gertrude HImmelfarb, The Roads to Modernity New York, 2005 Gordon Brown's reported bedside reading. Himmelfarb argues that British political exceptionalism dates back to the Enlightenment and is a powerful source of values today ^ ^ xr '¦ MODERNITY Robert Putnam^ Making Democracy Work Princeton 1991 Practically invented the concept of social capital, the cultural resources that oil the wheels of democracy. Conservative and Labour prescriptions for Britain's political apathy have batted It back and forth between them ever since WE%LALLWIN WITHTHE CONSERVATIVES. . 'i f:? m • ¦ ;J&S W'^ T FEATURES 14 iBeaver 26 February 2008 US2008 .. .-ITN ^ ir' r- - m & 'sP«n\otion which isisues will Wth in November Flagrant attacks on Senator Barack Obama's rhetorical skills have become the new battleground in what seems an endless campaign for the Presidential nomination. Both Senator Hillary Clinton and Senator John McCain, sensing the surge of a political force incapable of being tamed by straightforward policy competition, have shifted to questioning the validity of their opposition's voice. Hillary Clinton's "change you can Xerox" jibe at the last Democratic debate fell flat on its face in the wake of Mr Obama's immense charisma. For the American people, the current event may seem more like a beauty pageant than a competition of ideas. Policy may seem unimportant to the American psyche at this low point of national confidence, but it certainly will matter by the time one of these candidates swears into office a little under a year from now. There are clear policy differences on every level -domestic and international, economic and civil liberties - between the two parties. America's direction in a policy wonk sense may well be more important in twelve months' time than the cultivated images of the celebrity candidates are today. The Republicans have sought to quickly define and articulate their candidate's perspectives prior to the national fight, in an effort to consolidate their base around the roguish Senator McCain. Known for his "straight-talk express," McCain has sought to align himself with what he views as the successful elements of the Bush presidency. Limited those may be, there is a strong element within the electorate still attached to the war in Iraq as a cause worth the loss of American soldiers abroad. Senator McCain has taken these supporters under his mantle, concentrating his campaign on the "tough choices" to be made in the defence of the United States. From a strategic perspective, this is truly the only way McCain can win a national election. Fear and the spectre of doom are common tools of Republican candidates; but with terrorism remaining a real and established threat in the minds of Americans, they are also likely to be successful ones. McCain has clear and established dominance in this area over his Democratic competition. Time spent in Vietnam as a prisoner of war might seem just a bid for sympathy, but Americans consider this a sign of service beyond any other Whether McCain is more intelligent on matters of national security or not, he is already advantaged simply because of his military experience. Economics cannot carry McCain to victory, after the Bush administration's failure to quell the credit crisis and its blatant cronyism with the Enron scandal. If this campaign becomes about terrorism though, perhaps because of a foiled - or successful - attack on American interests, the country will swing to McCain without any doubt. The Democrats, whether Obama or Clinton, carry a much more complex and contemplative policy approach for the national election than their opposition. While delivery from either candidate will vary dramatically, both are going to lay out an economic policy stall in November, with a strong anti-Iraq corollary. Their coolness on Iraq has an obvious result, catalyzing the Left to their cause; while the pair's economic positions unite a diverse party under a r "Republicans defined the last two elections as a decision about national security. Democrats must avoid this, emphasising their economic strengths" traditional banner The Democrats may for once hold definitive policy strength over their opposition. The War in Iraq is an extremely contentious issue nationally, but the Democrats have a huge advantage in their traditional areas of the North East and West Coast over their Republican opposition. McCain may hope to eat into some of these territories, but it is unlikely the anti-war, anti-Bush coastlines will sway from their 'pull out the troops' stance. The Democrats are also arguing for renewed emphasis on middle-class interests - specifically universal health insurance, increased taxes on the richest Americans, and government stimulation of employment via "green jobs."Barack Obama in particular has emphasised the goal of restoring government aid for college students, a programme obliterated during the Bush administration. Sensing weakness in the once impregnable wall against government growth and spending erected by the Republicans' small government doctrine, the Democrats are now seeking every hole in the dyke, and have no interest in plugging them. The economic stimulus programmes put forth by the Democrats are a fantastic tactic for winning over the electorate at a time of relative peace. There is no way a Republican candidate, centrist like McCain or not, could effectively counter this approach in such a difficult time for the US economy. The old GOP rhetoric of small goverrmient, lower taxes now seems fantastically dated in the eyes of a country which views the effects of globalisation as emasculating its economic power. Democrats, typically the party of the disenfranchised and impoverished, have seized on this, constructing a laundry list of policy initiatives, and are now seek to brand the Republicans as rich and out of touch with the electorate. On national defence beyond Iraq however, the Democrats are weak. Neither Clinton nor Obama has expertise or experience on the issue. They may pour vitriol at McCain's support of torture in the Senate just a few weeks ago, call for the closure of Guantanamo, or espouse the importance of diplomacy, but neither looks particularly credible on this issue. Republicans defined the past two elections as a decision about safety and security. Democrats must seek to avoid these issues, emphasising their economic and rhetorical strengths, and abandon any attempts at solidifying a foreign policy prior to the election. Victory in the national election is no certainty for either party. While many think the Democrats ability to rouse massive amounts of support in the primaries is an indication of national election strength, it could all collapse with one change in events. The American electorate, while certainly fearful of not having any money in their pockets, is far more frightened of the threat of domestic terrorism. A single event targeting the country could result in a massive shift of support from the hopeful Obama or stoic Clinton to the experienced McCain. In the coming weeks, the Democrats will continue to mull over their choice for the nomination. Clinton may fight back, Obama may stroll, but serious questions will remain about either candidate's ability to succeed in the general election. In a year Democrats consider a cake-walk, it wll be necessary for the party to remain focused. Policy and the details of government may not matter, but tactically playing to one's strengths among a simultaneously hopeful and fearful electorate will. ¦ J. 26 February 2008 ^Beaver 15 FEATURES * » B Right now it seems very likely that, barring some sudden event, John McCain will be the Republican nominee and either Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama will take the Democratic nomination. A lot of words are going to be written about the upcoming contest, so I have decided to focus on the bottom half of the ticket, the Vice Presidency. The vice-presidency has frequently been derided as a thankless job, with a lack of real power but the responsibility to carry the can for every mistake that the President. Indeed, John Gamer, thirty-second Vice President of the United States, once compared the job to, 'a barrel of warm spit'. However, given that nearly every President has faced either an attempt on their life, a major health scare or a scandal (or any combination of the three) the choice of Vice President will be important. There are essentially three things that a running mate should possess: the ability to take over the reins if need be; the ability to boost the ticket; and the absence of anything that might reduce the ticket's popul^ity. As a moderate in a party that is perceived to be dominated by those who are not only to the right of Attila the Hun, but probably think that Attila was a big government liberal and soft on immigration, there have been calls for John McCain to appoint someone with impeccable conservative credentials in the fiscal or social field to keep on board. While even dyed-in-the-wool Republicans accept that choosing polarising figures like the failed Pennslyvani Senator Richard Santorum or former Bush Attorney General John Ashcroft would not be a wise move. Mitt Romney and Mike Huckabee have both been suggested to placate fiscal and social conservatives respectively. At the same time there have been calls for more unorthodox choices such as Governor Sarah Palin of Alaska, Secretary of iState Condoleezza Rice and even iGeneral David Petraeus. However, all these suggestions have severe drawbacks. The selection of Romney would ailenate social conservatives while choosing Mike Huckabee would ailenate independents. Sarah Palin may have an appeal that transcends politics, but putting a Governor who has barely spent a year in office a heartbeat away from the Presidency would undermine McCain's arguments about experience. Although the choice of Condi Rice would be groundbreaking, she is not a natural campaigner, and many people do find her a rather distant and cold character. In any case, while McCain needs to emphasise his hawk-ishness, Condi is simply too connected with the Bush administration on all issues. Finally, we know little about David Petraeus's beliefs on economic and social issues, and his willingness to deal with former Ba'athists, even in defiance of the administration, does not exactly inspire confidence about the sort of foreign policy advice that he would give to John McCain. Of course my ovm suggested pick, the independent Connecticut Senator Joe Lieberman, will have many potential negatives. There will need to be a lot of work put in to mollify the evangelical Right about the sort of Supreme Court justices a Lieberman administration would appoint, in the event that something tragic happened to McCain. However, choosing Lieberman could paradoxically unite the Republican party behind the ticket, while convincing 'Charlie Wilson Democrats' to consider sending the party that has deserted them a clear message in November. Neither should the appeal of Lieberman's message on family values and faith in public life be underestimated. If Lieberman is a too controversial a choice, then former Pennslyvania Governor and Secretary of Homeland Security Tom Ridge would be a solid, if rather boring, choice. Ridge has plenty of experience, shares many of McCain's views, was also a Vietnam hero and could turn a key swing state Republican come November. The only negative is that he is mildly pro- ""Given that nearly every President has faced either an attempt on their life, a major health scare, or a scandal, the candidates' choice of Vice President on their ticket will be. important" choice. If Hillary Clinton gets the Democratic nomination, she may have to choose Barack Obama to prevent a full-scale civil war within their party. Although this is probably the ticket that many people would have chosen last year, it still puts someone who is very inexperienced close to the Presidency. Additionally, Obama might not accept the nomination, believing that he will be better placed to make his next bid for the White House from the Senate rather than as Vice-President in an administration may turn out to unpopular. If this is the case, Clinton has two options. She could choose someone like former Virginia Governor Mark Warner, Virginia Senator Jim Webb, former Congressman Harold Ford Jr or Georgia Representative Sanford Bishop to appeal to the South; or she may appeal to the West by choosing either Bill Richardson or Ken Salazar. Bill Richardson has skeletons in his closet and lacks charisma; Jim Webb has extremely dubious views on the American Civil War; while Harold Ford Jr would be the youngest Vice President in American history if elected. Mrs Clinton would be wise to choose either Salazar, Bishop or Warner, who are all individuals who would appeal to the political centre. Just as Clinton may be forced to choose Obama if nominated, Obama might have to choose Clinton, to prevent a floor fight at this year's Democratic Convention in Denver. Although many people have said that she would gracefully refuse such an invitation, the truth is that she would grab Obama's hand off. After all, she could hardly run again in 2012 after squandering such a large lead. However, this could result in a ticket where his inexperience was combined with her ability to polarise the country. If Mr Obama has any say in the matter, he will prefer one of essentially three choices instead: Senator Webb, Governor Katherine Sibelius of Kansas, or New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg. All three have pluses and minuses. Webb would add military heroism to the ticket and could assume the role of Obama's attack dog. Sibelius would placate Democratic women and add some executive experience to an Obama administration. Bloomberg would not only potentially add his billions to the Obama war chest but shore up his support amoung independent voters, especially in the North-East. However, there are questions as to whether Webb's palaeo-conservatism deserves a place in a Democratic administration, especially given his colourful personal life and his relative inexperience. Although Bloomberg's appearance on the ticket would really set the cat among the Republican • pigeons, his record as Mayor has not been that spectacular. So we could potentially see a McCain/Lieberman, Clinton/Salazar or Obama/Sibelius ticket. However, do not be surprised if an election cycle that has seen people cross party boundries, including the spectacle of Ann Coulter promising to campaign for "my girl Hillary", has got even more suprises left. After all, Hillary Clinton would probably kill for the chance to put centrist former Bush Secretary of State Colin Powell on her ticket, and we could even see Barack Obama running with Republican Nebraska Senator Chuck Hagel. McCain could choose Everett Alvarez, who in addition to being his roomate in the Hanoi Hilton, has had a successful career in public administration and the private sector. "Selecting someone of Latin American origin would also go some way towards atoning for the anti-immigration rhetoric that many of the Republican candidates have spewed during the campaign. Indeed, McCain's cryptic comments about wanting someone who had experience with telecommunications could hint at a shock alliance with Mark Warner, who hasn't endorsed anyone yet. Of course, these last speculations are really long shots - but stranger things have happened. ¦ FEATURES 16 tBeaver 26 February 8 e0f. n t i f *: -I i Mark Field is the Member of Parliament for the Cities of London and Westminster, Given that this includes Houghton Street, the LSE and the Holbom area, Mr Field is interested in you - even if you are not so interested in him. With a relatively small permanent population, one could be forgiven for thinking that Mr Field's political patch is a ghost constituency. Far from it. Packed into seven square miles and extending from Paddington Station to Liverpool Street Station, this safe Conservative seat encompasses at least six universities, much of Britain's financial powerhouse, and the Palace of Westminster itself. It also counts many foreign nationals within its jurisdiction, "who could potentially require representation." Mr Field's surgery provides help to anyone from Chelsea billionaires to asylum cases. I meet Mark Field the day after yet another Northern Rock debate at the House on Commons. The debate dragged on till 2am. Since Mr Field is a Tory MP and 900 000 people come into his constituency every day to work in the City, he is obviously very concerned by the whole credit crunch crisis and its impact on Britain's financial sector. So what's the Tory position on Northern Rock? "Obviously, they'd rather not be here in that position". As for the reasons of the current mess. Field names both the potential autumn elections (which didn't happen) and the fact that Northern Rock is from the North East, a traditional Labour election territory. Ultimately, he blames the state of the credit market more than the Government for the nationalisation, and doesn't consider the Branson offer to have ever been viable. Field is worried about the nationalisation legislation voted the other day because "it is a very dracon-ian bill which applies much beyond Northern Rock". He expects the Northern Rock situation to be exactly what the Government wanted to avoid, "an ongoing political headache". What should we expect if the Conservatives are in power next time? By then, there should anyway be "a process under way whereby the most attractive bits are going to be sold off" to other banks. A recent poll by YouGov for the Sunday Times showed that the Tories were only polling nine points ahead of Labour, prompting James Forsyth in the Observer to ask whether the Tories should be further ahead. So does Field think that his leader David Cameron should be polling much better? Well, he doesn't directly answer the question, talking about the fact that both he has been MP for the Cities of London and Westminster since 2001, after failing to take the seat of Enfield North in 1997, and has therefore seen the Conservative party through its whole opposition period. He does however insist that the Conservative Party is now going somewhere. Comparing the Conservatives to Labour in 1995, two years before getting into government. Field acknowledges that there still is a long way to go - long, but not impossible. Interestingly, Field doesn't really believe that the Liberal Democrats could be part of it, save in the case of a hung Parliament. He believes that the Lib Dem base, contrary to the Party's officials, would have problems with this potentially unbeatable electoral alliance. Walking around On Tory Northern Rock policy; ^^Obviously, they'd rather not be here in that position" On the Israel Divest Motion: ^^Rather simplistic" On the causes of student political apathy: "Highly politicised sabbaticals who have this grand programme that doesn't seem relevant" Parliament after the interview, I get the feeling that the Liberal Democrats are not that liked by Conservatives anyway. While Field has six universities on his constituency, but actually counts few students among his constituents, due to the price of Central London real estate. He is however very concerned about what he fears will be the next clash in Britain. The next battle in politics will not be between the classes, but between generations. When Field was studying, fees were not as high, and students rarely left university with debt. And obviously, there wasn't a credit crunch crisis. Or was there? Periods of banks cutting down on graduate intakes are obviously not unheard of, as Field remembers a similar time shortly after his graduation. When he came to London in the late Eighties, Field was able to buy an apartment straight away, mainly thanks to a publishing company he set up while studying. He does however show some concern for housing prices, wondering how "short of working in financial services or having an inheritance" LSE students can afford them. Field traces back his ovra political involvement to his JCR days at Oxford University, where he read law. Back then, he stood in elections as the non -political candidate. The outgoing JCR President had decided to involve the College in an anti-Thatcher walk, and Field was having none of it. Apparently, he spinned his campaign so well that he got a wide range of backing, from the Christian Union to the left-wing caucus. While on the subject of student union politics, I bring up the recent "Hold Israel Accountable - Divest" motion that was recently debated and passed at the LSE Student Union's Union General Meeting. Field immediately refers to South Africa under Apartheid and the boycott of Barclay's Bank. We generally start talking about Israel and his position on the subject. As an MP, he's had a wide exposure to foreign affairs, travelling a couple of times to the Middle East. He immediately says that his instincts are rather close to Israel. He also considers that the decision to boycott companies is a "rather simplistic one," but acknowledges being sometimes disappointed by the actions of the Israeli government. Earlier on. Field had mentioned that he was saddened by the fact that "a lot of students feel disassociated from the political process". He's not quite sure, however, that student politics are the way to coax students back into caring about how they are governed, because he "suspects that the antics of a lot of student politicians are putting other students off". Field does value the debating space offered by students' unions. He also considers that they have an important role in providing basic services for students. However, despite the fact that Field does receive the Beaver every week, I highly doubt that he reads it, or has any thorough knowledge of our current Students' Union politics. It is therefore quite interesting to see that part of his diagnosis on the apathy of student bodies is because "of highly politicised sabbaticals who have this grand programme that doesn't seem relevant to day to day life." ¦ Listings 26 February 2008 Beaver 17 LISTINGS www.lsesu.com TUESDAY, 26th FEBRUARY Pi 2:00 Knitting i; Knitting Society, Quad ? • h7:10 From Shareholder to |: Stakeholder - How CSR Changes the Corporate World I CSR Society, D703 f 19:00 Lecture: Beppe Severgnini [: -The Italian Labyrinth: a [ guided tour Italian Society, G125 WEDNESDAY, 27th FEBRUARY ; 10:00 LSE SU Elections-voting Begins Quad/Online 13:15 Mass Chaplaincy ! 14:00 Lecture: Environmental Policies and Practice in China China Development, G108 18:00 The Source: Careers Event \ Asian Careers Society, D402 :i9:00 Swing Dance (Beginners) Parish Hall THURSDAY, 28th FEBRUARY 13:00 Union General Meeting LSESU, Old Theatre 17:00 Book Club: To Kill a Mocking Bird Literature Society, 1229 17:00 Lecture: Nixon's visit to china in 1972: A Turning Point in Sino-American relations? China Development, U8 17:00 Societies Awards Nominations Close 17:00 Lecture: Director's Dialogue with Michael Spencer, CEO of ICAP Hong Kong Theatre 18*30 Elections - Voting Ends Quad/Online 19:00 HipHop (Beginner) Dance, Parish Hall 20:30 HipHop (Advanced) Dance, Parish Hall FRIDAY, 29th FEBRUARY 21:00 LSESU, Quad/Tuns/Underground MONDAY, 3rd MARCH '11:00 Undress Your Wardrobe - > Dress Yourself - ' Redress Fashion People & Planet, Houghton ¦ Street/The Quad i ! 19:00 "The Muse" III is launched! j Literature Society, Parish Hall ! 19:00 Lecture: Energy, politics j and survival ! Oikos, Hong Kong Theatre i fUEXEGUTR/E .OFFICE General Secretary, F&dhil Bakeer Marker " Thursdays 2.3j)PM. Quad Communications Officer.Kayt .J- V IVeasurer, i Thursdays 2, Me;^er 'SI. Quad i 2.30PM, Quad Education and Welfare, Ruhana All Thursdays 2.30PMf\ Women's Officer, Daisy Mitchell-Forster ; Thursdays 12PM, Ctod Environment and Aled Dilwyn FisheR. ' Thursdays 12PM, Quad LGBT Officer " '' ^ Domimc Rampat ' Societies Officer, Carys Morgan Thursdays 2PM, Quad LSE SU celebrate Fairtrade Fortnight S- Since 200^ LSE has bocir^fedbgnised as a Pairtrade College. As a Fairtrade College, both the LSE and-LSEj'^U have introc^c^d a number of Riirtrade product ranges that allow you, as a consumer, to choosje products that-rwai help disadvantaged farmers, workers.and their families in the developing world. '; ' This year the LSE and;I,SE SU will be joining fc^esto celebrate F^irtrade Fortnight from 25th February to 9th M«^h. There are a number* |^vities organised that willshowcase Fiairtrade products andWustrate how the Fairtr^^jjPundati'bn has improved the lives of millions of people in developing'Countr|es including: ; Redre^ Fashion Clot^^'acij^n: Monday 3#^^®iursday 6th March, Ham - 3pm, Houghton Street/The Quad fn- ^ A film sctwning pygectj^ bicydes: IXi^^y March, 7pm in the Quad, with F^lrtrade refreshments • .j/"'"' Eairtrade Maf^^^^^ajrtith MarcK, 10am-5pm in the Quad , , > Promotional deals offfktfSade products will b4 offered throughout the fortnight'in the Students' Union's Shop and in both the School s and Students'UnioA's cdter^^<^^^ 4 " ~ For more information regarding F^irtrade Fortnight at LSE, pleas«^ , surer@lse.ac.uk For information regarding the Fairtrade FtoundS^^xm,.pl« trade.org.uk Meyer, su.trea-http;//www.fair- Callmg all LSE Students! " ~ ^ «¦ ^ V isw J EveXyoue thinks they're a kade^... Ho you want to get: .' opportunity to WOtk.ait{fftavel abo^ftwith MESEC Work City Career DevelQpx»^]g|-'lPro^ammi ^lentoring sessions, witK thkVi^^jpresi ^r Alcatel-Lticent? . ' ~ chance to jmpfesk|a|})!^urap^: ¦ I ¦ V.i ^ooks and discount$|[jf))|(|;M1|tl 4^' f i'finaoutkdl»re and tb appl^ visi www.LEADEBSHIPTOURNAMENtCcbm enedix to sccujrc a|job in the City?' i and JC^ropc and Northi^fesf { :?u):icl|. 4t4?! 1 nrim LSE Students' Union Teaching Excellence Awards 2007/8 This is your opportunity to acknowledge professors, lecturers, tutors, class teachers, seminar leaders, workshop organisers - any member of LSE staff involved in teaching who has inspired you, > helped you get to grips with complex or challenging ideas, encouraged your learning, changed your view on the world or helped you to "understand the cause of things" better Closing date: by 5pm on Friday 14th March 2008 LSE Students' Union Honorary Life Membership Every year 20 students are awarded honorary life memberships of the Students' Union in recognition of their significant contribution to the LSE Students' Union during their time at the School. All registered students are eligible for this award, regardless of their level of study, (note: Primary consideration will be given for students graduating this year) Closing date: 5pm on Monday 3rd March 2008 The Dev Cropper Memorial Award 2008 The Students' Union Executive Committee offer an annual award of £2500 to a student starting their final year in the next academic year, as a way of commemorating John Devenand Cropper's exemplary service to the student community at the LSE. The principle criterion for consideration for the award is involvement in and contribution to student life during the nominee's first five terms at the LSE. Closing date; 5pm, Friday 7th March 2008 LSE Bernard Levin Award for Student Journalism 2008 Write a newspaper column of up to 1,000 words on LSE and its campus being in the centre of London, and its impact on being a student at the School for a chance to win £500 and an internship with The Times Newspaper. Closing date: Friday 29th February For further information on all awards please visit www.lsesu.com or contact B^dhil at su.gensec@lse.ac.uk Have you got an inexplicable capacity for remembering seemingly irrelevant facts? Would you like the chance to represent th#LSE on national television? The Students' Union is forming a team for the next series of University Challenge, the BBC quiz competition for university students. Considered the toughest quiz competition on television. University Challenge pits teams of four students against each other in a test of general knowledge. Hosted by Jeremy Paxman, the show is something of a national institution. The LSE hasn't featured on the show for some years and it's about time this changed. If you're always impressing your friends with random pieces of trivia and reckon you'd be quick on the buzzer, come for the first written selection test on Monday 3rd March at 6pm in the Undei^ound. Register by emailing E^dMl at Su.gensec@lse.ac.uk NO PEACE NO ENTRY Lizzie Stratter The Quad, 7.30pm, 26th-28th February Tickets are £3 for non-members and £2 for members and are available on Houghton Street 12-3pm. An LSESU Drama Production An adaptation of Aristophanes' Lysistrata \ STUDENT DISCOUNT: Get a FREE soft drink or botHed water witli every humtnus purhca®e~or get arty other drink on the menu for lust £1. And $atad$ are 1/2 price. Ami yES» you oan even use this free dessert voucher at the same time... & 2pni-10pm. Additional concMiofis may apHP^< hufTYTius bros lii}it»s«caulc/LSE vnctorid Hous« 37H53 Sotithmnpitoii Bow loiKicmWC1B40A 020 7404 7079 OpHgfttng Hot«r$: Mortd»y-Pr» LSE McnS 2Qds knoc^^^m ^^JJniversity of ;f Bc-fijc^dshire Lgg Women's Ists >-¦<11 ound I'Women's Ists^i^^iM-out by Univrrjiity oI 2nds in quarter finals Voileybau LSEMjxeci !sts ft-rj Lnpcrtrii