Ex-St Andrews principal in row over homophobic professors

The former principal of St Andrews University has been urged to apologise after defending professors who may express views “against homosexuality”.

Oxford University vice-chancellor Louise Richardson, speaking at the Times Higher Education World Academic Summit on Monday, said students have no right not to be offended.

She went on to say she has had several talks with students who claimed they were uncomfortable with the views on homosexuality expressed by some professors.

Professor Richardson said: “I’ve had many conversations with students who say they don’t feel comfortable because their professor has expressed views against homosexuality.

“They don’t feel comfortable being in class with someone with those views.

“And I say ‘I’m sorry but my job isn’t to make you feel comfortable. Education is not about being comfortable. I’m interested in making you uncomfortable’.

“If you don’t like his views, you challenge them, engage with them and figure how a smart person can have views like that. Work out how you can persuade him to change his mind.”

However, her comments have provoked outrage among some students. Oxford University Student Union president Kate Cole said: “Freedom of speech is not an excuse for homophobia.”

Oxford city councillor Tom Hayes added: “It’s simply not acceptable for students to face prejudiced tutors who will propagate hateful views and pass off discrimination as debate.”

Oxford University has not yet responded to requests for comment.

Professor Richardson was rector of St Andrews University from 2009 to the end of 2015.

Picture: PA. Louise Richardson said students have no right not to be offended.