How stealing a kiss could get a student suspended

STUDENTS can be disciplined for kissing someone ‘without consent’ under new guidlines for universities.

The behaviour could be considered misconduct and result in serious sanctions if reported to the institute’s authorities.

However the guidance – published today by Universities UK, which represents vice chancellors – says there should be alternative responses for different types of unwanted kissing.

It says: ‘In relation to the unacceptable behaviour of kissing without consent, the act of forcefully kissing another on the lips is likely to be regarded as a serious disciplinary offence whereas lightly kissing another on the hand is likely to be regarded as less serious.’

In a sample code of conduct, it suggests that punishments could include forcing the student to write an apology or attend an educational workshop, issuing them with a formal warning or even suspension.

The advice has been written in response to concerns about sexual assaults on campuses. But Alan Smithers, an education expert at the University of Buckingham, says it ‘goes too far’ and could be used by ‘someone intent on making trouble’.

Nicola Dandridge, of Universities UK, said: ‘Universities must be ready to respond [to any such incidents].’