Cambridge University Chancellor condemns 'racist feeding frenzy' after Jason Arday's death

Cambridge University's chancellor, Chris Smith, expressed deep sorrow over the "racist feeding frenzy" that ensued following Jason Arday's death, which was reportedly linked to allegations of plagiarism against the university's youngest-ever black professor. Arday, a 41-year-old academic, had resigned on August 5 after widespread media coverage of plagiarism accusations against his doctoral thesis.

Smith emphasized the necessity for a thorough investigation into the plagiarism claims but staunchly denied any participation in the "racist feeding frenzy" surrounding Arday.

On Friday, Arday was found deceased at his home in London, a tragic event described by Prime Minister Andy Burnham, a Cambridge alumnus, as a "tragedy on so many levels." Arday's family has accused a "misinformation campaign" in his death, and a fundraising page for his family has amassed over £146,000 ($198,000) in donations. Additionally, a petition demanding a public inquiry into the media coverage of Arday had gathered nearly 32,400 signatures.

The university is under scrutiny for its handling of the allegations and the treatment of Arday. Right-wing opposition MP James Cleverly, whose mother was born in Sierra Leone, suggested that some scrutiny of Arday's case may have been racially motivated, though he acknowledged that proper due diligence and checks should have been conducted for any senior academic appointment.

Prior to Arday's death, Cambridge's vice-chancellor, Deborah Prentice, had announced an investigation into Arday's appointment and his tenure at the university.