Plagiarism row: UK PM urges reflection following death of ex-Cambridge professor

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has urged for societal reflection following the death of Jason Arday, a former Cambridge University academic. Arday, 41, was found dead on Friday, nine days after resigning from his position as a professor and fellow at Jesus College, Cambridge. Both institutions had initiated probes into various allegations against him.

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It’s a tragedy on so many levels, but particularly just for everybody who knew Jason. It’s a moment for reflection… reflecting on how things came to this.

Arday's family released a statement denouncing what they described as a "campaign of sustained abuse" spanning over three years. They stated that the pressure "was too much for Jason, who was a gentle man and who always wanted to see the best in everyone." The family highlighted his vulnerability, noting he had been diagnosed with autism.

Arday, who became Cambridge's youngest Black professor in 2023, had previously asserted he was the target of a "racially motivated" campaign. Prime Minister Burnham, speaking to reporters, described the situation as a "tragedy on so many levels" and a "moment for reflection... reflecting on how things came to this."

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He had been subjected to a campaign of sustained abuse for more than three years since he accepted the role of professor at Cambridge University. It was too much for Jason, who was a gentle man and who always wanted to see the best in everyone.

The controversy gained traction last month when academics and media reports accused Arday of plagiarizing his doctoral thesis and exaggerating his life achievements. These allegations were amplified by right-wing British media and commentators, who suggested he unfairly benefited from diversity, equality, and inclusion policies. However, Weyman Bennett, co-convenor of the Stand Up to Racism campaign group, characterized his death as the result of a "racist witch hunt."

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It was the only way to end a difficult period, but should not be mistaken for an acceptance of the narratives that have surrounded me.

In his resignation letter on August 5, Arday stated his move was the "only way" to end a "difficult period" but cautioned against interpreting it as an admission of the accusations. The Metropolitan Police confirmed the death was "unexpected, but is not believed to be suspicious" and is preparing a file for the coroner.

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It was the result of a racist witch hunt by right-wing media, politicians and the far right.