Bangor University has clarified its stance on a decision made by its student debating society, which declined to host a question-and-answer session with Reform UK, emphasizing that the society operates independently.

The debating society cited its "zero tolerance" policy towards racism, transphobia, and homophobia as the reason for rejecting the request from Reform UK's Sarah Pochin and Jack Anderton to engage with students.

In response, Reform UK's head of policy, Zia Yusuf, warned that a Reform government would consider withdrawing £30m in funding from the university, stating that the institution would not want to accept money from a group it deemed racist.

Bangor University reaffirmed its commitment to fostering debate across the political spectrum, noting that student societies are managed by the Students' Union and operate autonomously.

The Students' Union at Bangor has been approached for comment on the matter.

The Bangor Debating & Political Society, based at the university in Gwynedd, north Wales, announced that it would not be hosting Reform UK's Pochin and Anderton, citing a request from the pair to address students.

The society stated that its decision to reject the request was "in line with our values," and that it stood by this choice as a committee.

The society explained that Reform UK's approach to the lives of others was incompatible with the values of inclusivity and respectful debate that it has upheld for 177 years.

The society expressed pride in being the first debating union to take a stand against Reform UK, setting a precedent for other societies.

The society urged its fellow debating unions to join them in promoting a hate-free environment in universities.

On the social media platform X, Zia Yusuf posted a statement claiming that Bangor University had banned Reform UK and labeled the party "racist, transphobic, and homophobic."

Yusuf noted that Bangor University receives £30m in state funding annually, a significant portion of which comes from taxpayers who support Reform UK.

He suggested that the university would not be concerned about losing this funding under a Reform government.

Reacting to the society's statement, Reform UK's Sarah Pochin questioned the commitment to free speech in universities.

Pochin wondered how a university debating society could be fearful of engaging in debate.

Jack Anderton, Pochin's Reform UK colleague, stated that the Bangor University Debating & Political Society was not interested in genuine debate.

Anderton explained that he and Pochin had requested to host an event as part of the A New Dawn Tour, but were told they were not welcome.

The pair are exploring alternative ways to engage with Bangor students, with or without the society's involvement.

Dan Thomas, leader of Reform Wales, expressed disappointment that a university debating society would seek to de-platform a major political party.

Thomas argued that universities should be bastions of free discussion and intellectual exploration, but some groups often prioritize self-protection over open engagement.

He vowed that Reform UK would protect free speech on campus and safeguard basic liberties.

A spokesperson for Bangor University clarified that the debating society's statement was issued independently and did not reflect the university's views.

The spokesperson emphasized that the views expressed by student societies are their own and do not represent university policy.

The university reaffirmed its commitment to welcoming debate from across the political spectrum.

As the oldest student society in Wales, founded in 1849, the Bangor Debating & Political Society has a long history of promoting public discourse.

According to its website, the society aims to provide a welcoming environment for public speaking and critical thinking, support competitive teams, and facilitate public debates that engage the university and wider community.

The society remains dedicated to fostering reasoned and inclusive debate, recognizing the importance of this approach in an evolving public discourse.