Students have branded an idea put forward by the Union’s Affairs Officer “undemocratic”.

Antony Haddley has proposed that the Better Union Forum, where such ideas are voted on, should only assemble when there are at least two submissions, unless the matter is considered urgent.

Hester Dart, a Second Year History student said, “I really don’t think the motion should pass as it sets a precedent that will further hinder democracy in the Union. Expense should not come before democracy. The matter of urgency is subjective, so it’s difficult to define.”

Haddley has cited the cost of running Better Union forums – £345 – as a reason for his proposal. Haddley told Leeds Student that the majority of the cost was due to the Union paying students to sit on the panel.  He said, “Considering the next forums are usually only three weeks after, I think it would be time and money better spent if the idea was delayed a little so there’s at least more than one thing being discussed.”

Ideas submitted at the end of the academic year would qualify for this exemption from the rule.

Alice Smart, a Third Year History and Social Policy student said, “In my view the problem of not enough ideas being submitted to the forums is a symptom of a larger problem relating to a lack of student awareness and participation in the Union’s democratic procedures. This problem cannot simply be taken away by limiting the amount of forums.”

In response to the criticism Haddley said, “If there’s significant pushback and the panel vote it down then I can sleep at night knowing students have made that decision.”

Words: Phil Mann