Poetry professor quits over 'smear tactics' allegation (From The Oxford Times)
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Poetry professor quits over 'smear tactics' allegation
6:36pm Monday 25th May 2009 in
Oxford University’s new Professor of Poetry has resigned from the post amid allegations of a smear campaign against a rival.
Ruth Padel admitted she unwisely sent emails to two journalists tipping them off about allegations of sexual harassment made against a rival for the post, Derek Walcott, but denied doing anything intentional that led to his withdrawal from the election.
The post of Professor of Poetry at Oxford University, which dates back 300 years, is considered to be the second most prestigious position in the country behind Poet Laureate.
A spokesman for the university said it was hoping for a period of reflection before any decisions about a new Professor were made.
Comments(5)
Andrew:Oxford
says...
7:23pm Mon 25 May 09
How exactly was that done unintentionally?
Maybe Ruth didn't realise that all emails going through university servers, just like a company, are all logged - no need for allegations in this case, there would be clear evidence on the mail servers of wrong-doing.
duwat
says...
7:46pm Mon 25 May 09
Sophia
says...
9:34am Tue 26 May 09
Sophia
says...
10:09am Tue 26 May 09
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oxfordmaillogin says...
6:42pm Mon 25 May 09
If you want an indication of how stupid "these" people think we are.... then look at this statement we are expected to believe....
"Ruth Padel admitted she unwisely sent emails to two journalists tipping them off about allegations of sexual harassment made against a rival for the post, Derek Walcott, but denied doing anything intentional that led to his withdrawal from the election."
Sure.....