UK PM calls for ‘reflection’ after death of ex-Cambridge professor

Prime Minister Andy Burnham has urged for contemplation following the death of Jason Arday, a former professor at Cambridge University. Arday, 41, was discovered unresponsive at a south London address on Friday, nine days after resigning from his academic post. While police are treating the death as unexpected, they do not believe it to be suspicious. A file is being prepared for the coroner to determine the cause of death.

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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 stated that he endured "a campaign of sustained abuse for more than three years" after accepting his professorship at Cambridge. They described the pressure as overwhelming for Arday, a gentle individual who always sought the best in others. This statement emerged amid a growing debate over the treatment of Arday, who was Cambridge's youngest Black professor in 2023 and had previously spoken out about criticism he believed was racially motivated.

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a campaign of sustained abuse for more than three years since he accepted the role of professor at Cambridge University

The controversy escalated last month with accusations from academics and media reports alleging plagiarism in his doctoral thesis and exaggeration of his achievements. These allegations, widely covered by British media, sparked debate among right-wing commentators who suggested Arday had unfairly benefited from diversity initiatives. Arday resigned on August 5, stating it was the "only way" to end a difficult period, but insisted his resignation did not signify an admission of guilt regarding the narratives surrounding him.

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racially motivated

Academics and anti-racism campaigners have reacted to his death. Weyman Bennett of Stand Up to Racism called Arday's death the result of a "racist witch hunt" by right-wing media, politicians, and far-right groups. Simon Baron-Cohen, a Cambridge professor, confirmed speaking with Arday shortly before his death and described him as a "vulnerable adult" who faced relentless scrutiny and efforts to discredit his career. Baron-Cohen emphasized Arday's need for safeguarding and support.

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the only way