Issue 763- 27 November 2024

THE UNIVERSITY OF EXETER’S INDEPENDENT STUDENT NEWSPAPER SINCE 1987

Reports of rape and sexual assault in Exeter rise in 2024

Amy Rushton Editor-in-Chief

Amy Rushton and

Agata Koralewska Editor-in-Chief and Deputy Editor

EXCLUSIVE

THIS ARTICLE CONTAINS CONTENT RELATING TO RAPE AND SEXUAL ASSAULT WHICH SOME READERS MAY FIND DISTRESSING

REPORTS of sexual assault and rape have increased across Exeter in 2024 it has been revealed.

According to a Freedom of Information (FOI) request obtained by Exeposé, instances of sexual assualt and rape recorded in the postcode EX4 have increased in the past 3 years, rising from 146 in 2021 to 185 in 2023. Reports of sexual assault and rape in 2024 had reached 189 by September in nine months already surpassing reports across the whole of 2023. This reached a peak in September with 29 reports of sexual assault and rape across the month.

This comes amid rising safety concerns in Exeter, with multiple high-profile case of rape and sexual assault this year. In response, Devon and Cornwall Police have adopted ‘Project NightEye’, which they state aims to “prevent sexual and other crimes by proactively identifying predatory sexual behaviour and intervening to prevent this escalating to an offence”.

In response to a request in the FOI to explain the specific actions undertaken under Project NightEye, Devon and Cornwall Police stated “Project NightEye is intelligence led with information feeding into monthly meetings to discuss and propose tactical actions that may be required within the evening and nighttime economy. It can include the deployment of Project Vigilant trained officers in a specific area.” Their website further adds that this may include the deployment of plainclothes police officers outside bars or nightclubs. When asked to explain their Body-Worn Camera (BWV) policy with regards to plainclothes officers, the police stated “BWV must be used to record all stop and search encoun-

ters by both uniform and plain clothes users, and when in plain clothes, BWV must be activated as soon as the user identifies themselves to the subject as a police officer. Plain clothes users must consider how best to carry and utilise BWV, dependent on their role, to ensure the best protection and transparency for all parties.”

Following these findings, Exeposé approached Exeter students on their experiences of women’s safety in Exeter. Impressions of Exeter as a safe city vary.

Several positive insights have been provided, with one student stating that “any incidents are isolated,” and another student commenting that the drunkenness that they [have] witnessed in the city centre “doesn’t affect them much”. One respondent praised systems such as Nightline or Estate Patrol, stating that they would turn to them if they saw any incidents occur.

However, many respondents expressed that they felt they couldn’t take their safety for granted in Exeter. One stated that, as a woman, she has felt that she can “no longer participate in society

events” as she feels unsafe walking around when it gets dark after 4pm. Another mentioned frequent catcalling in the city centre and even on Prince of Wales road, which runs through campus. One respondent shared that a female university student was walking back from the train station at 2pm and she was harassed by a group of guys: “Not two days ago I decided to walk home from the train station at around 2pm thinking I’d be fine considering the time of day. Ended up getting chased by a group of guys who eyed me up across the street and saw I was alone. I called someone in a panic while speed walking away while the guys pointed and came after me, commenting on my ass and taunting whether they should go for me or not. No single person or car was around but I managed to make it to a main street where other people were around. Took the cab home from there. Haven’t been able to walk casually around town since. I love walking and lis-

Continued on page 4

IT Services conduct simulated ‘phishing’ campaign

Charlie Gershinson Deputy Editor

STUDENTS have expressed mixed opinions about the IT department’s recent campaign to raise awareness of ‘phishing’ emails.

Since the 21st October, IT Services have been running a simulated phishing campaign where every student has, at some point, received a fake phishing email over the succeeding four weeks.

Students had the chance to receive a

£100 Amazon voucher if they spotted and reported at least three of the emails.

Phishing is a form of cyberattack where bad actors attempt to steal personal information under false pretences. It is the most common form of cyberattack at the University of Exeter, according to IT Services.

Examples of simulated phishing emails include one saying that the exeter.ac.uk email domain has been compromised and that students would not receive new emails until they clicked on a link to review their account. Another email said that five emails had been

‘quarantined’ due to a server error.

In a survey conducted by Exeposé, all respondents said that they had been sent at least one simulated phishing email. Around 75 per cent had received at least two emails with the most common number being three. Most students (around two-thirds) said that they had not been fooled by any of the emails.

When asked if they had any comments, many students spoke positively about the effort. One student said they “think they are a really good way to increase awareness of the massi-

ve dangers that real phishing emails can pose to organisations and the data they protect.” Another student said, “it’s quite good. A lot of the emails look really realistic, and if someone wanted to they could probably catch people out. I think it’s a good campaign that is raising awareness.”

One said that the campaign contained educational value for them as they “only fell for the first one, after which I learned to spot them. So, they could be effective.”

Continued on page 4

Image: Livvy Mason-Myhill

Devonshire

Editors

Print: Gracie Moore and Amy Rushton

Online: Callum Martin and Katie Matthews

Print Deputies: Charlie Gershinson, Rosie PetersMcDonald, Agata Koralewska

Online Deputies: Emily Roughton and Amberly Wright editors@exepose.com

News Editors

Print: Isabella van der Putten and Nina Exton

Online: Eva Holland and Anvi Deshpande news@exepose.com

Features Editors

Print: Honor Borley and Bella MacLusky

Online: Michelle Chung and Jo Howard features@exepose.com

Climate Editors

Print: Charlie Gershinson

Online: Harriet Ball

Comment Editors

Print: Tom Richardson

Online: Sophie Zoltowski comment@exepose.com

Satire Editors

Print: Audrey Alvey

Online Caspian Davies

Lifestyle Editors

Print: Anna Spencer and Katie Roberts

Online: Jasmine Payne and Imogen Pearey lifestyle@exepose.com

Arts + Lit Editors

Print: Judy Dodd and Kayleigh Swart

Online: Emily Sara Rizzo and Owen Peak artsandlit@exepose.com

Music Editors

Print: Harry Morrison and Brooke Taylor

Online Zandie Howells music@exepose.com

Screen Editors

Print: Pollyanna Roberts and Charlie McCormack

Online Bronwyn Payne and Dumebi Jibunoh screen@exepose.com

International Editors

Print: Henry Anderson and Jed Gibbins

Online: Magdalena Kanecka and Annabel Jeffery

Sci-Tech Editors

Print: Ella-Jade Smith Online Daniel Grayshon sciandtech@exepose.com

Sport Editors

Print: Eloise Grainger and Ben Scott

Online: Reuben Moynihan-Case and Connor Myers sport@exepose.com

Social Media Executive: Eleanor Stewart

Finance Executive: Rhys Thomas

@exepose

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Editorial

WELCOME back! As we approach the winter break, Exeter is getting colder. Snow isn't the only thing piling up at the moment — we hope your deadlines aren't getting the better of you! There are lots of great articles this issue to get stuck into, and as ever, if there's an important issue at the University or in Exeter you think we've missed, please email us at editors@exepose.com.

In this issue, News covers fundraising for those affected by flooding in Valencia (Page 4), the opening of LGBTQ+ oral history archives (Page 5), Exeter's 'bean' attacks (Page 6), and more.

Features looks at women's rights around the world (Page 8) while Comment discusses Trump's new Cabinet (Page 13). Satire looks at Elon Musk's newest appointment and Kemi Badenoch's status as a working class hero (Page 14). Over in Exhibit, Arts and Lit analyse men's mental health through Hemingway's works (Page 18), while Music interviews JAG Music (Page 20)., and discusses the latest Grammy nominations (Page 21). Meanwhile, Screen review Heretic and Paddington in Peru (Page 22), and Exetera Exetera... discuss the growing impact of climate anxiety amongst young people (Page 26).

Sci-Tech covers bitcoin surges following Trump's election (Page 28), and discusses new research into the potential sentience of AI (Page 29).

Also in this edition, Sport writers cover F1 contract chaos (Page 30) and offer their mid-season NFL review (Page 31). If you have any questions about joining the paper, please check out our socials @exepose. We hope you enjoy reading this issue and a huge thank you to all our writers, editors and proofers!

Gracie and Amy

Centre launched to research

Multilingual article: Polish Independence Day

20

University news home and abroad

Israeli airstrikes cause more damage to university complex

THE state of Israel has recently launched drastic airstrikes targeting the university complex of the Rafik Hariri University City in the Hadath area of southern Beirut — a part of the national Lebanese University (LU). The president of the LU has voiced that, along with the rest of the universities in Lebanon, they will continue to “remain resilient”, emphasising that “Israeli attacks will not deter [them] from continuing its mission of education and community service." As they continue their remote learning, institutions from around the world have called for increased protection of students and young people living in Lebanon from military attacks during times of conflict. As the death toll of students and faculty members around Lebanon rises, the field of higher education remains in chaos. The general public are attempting to push through these impacts on Higher Education, regardless of the political climate within the country’s borders.

Guidelines to combat bullying in Malaysian universities

FOLLOWING the recent bullying of a Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia (UPNM) cadet, in which a senior pressed a hot iron against the victim’s chest, former minister Khairy Jamaluddin has called for Malaysia’s higher education ministry to establish guidelines to tackle bullying in higher learning institutions. This was the second case involving the same method of abuse at UPNM in seven years, after a cadet officer died in 2017 after being bullied, beaten and tortured. Khairy described the bullying in Malaysian universities as being “romanticised as some kind of rite of passage”, adding that while the Education Ministry has guidelines for handling bullying at school level for institutions under its purview, “there doesn't seem to be anything comprehensive at the Higher Education Ministry level”. The armed forces confirmed last Wednesday that it had launched an investigation into the incident.

20 per cent cut in student loan debt for 'fairer, affordable' HE in Australia

AUSTRALIAN Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced a plan to make higher education fairer and more affordable, including a 20 percent cut in student loan debt if re-elected. This will benefit approximately three million students and wipe around AU$6 billion in debt, saving the average student AU$5,500. This is promised to rectify hindrances made by the previous Morrison admin istration to the accessibil ity of higher education, which disproportionately affected students from regional Australia and lower socioeconomic backgrounds. Albanese has promised to continue providing cost-of-living re lief to students and graduates, but only if re-elected. Because of this, many have accused his plans as being a lastditch effort for him and his Labor party to win re-election. According to the leader of the Australian Greens, who promise to cut student debt entirely, there is no reason for Labor to wait to make these legislative changes until the next election.

Edinburgh University warns students not to be 'snobs'

DINBURGH University has called for its students to be more aware of their classrelated prejudices and take care not to be “snobs” to their peers from working class backgrounds. The university admitted there was a problem after being contacted by the Scottish Social Mobility Society who claimed that students regularly reported being mocked and degraded for their regional accents. Some students reported being ridiculed for having to work a job to afford school and those with Scottish accents stated they were asked to repeat themselves or “speak more clearly” when in the classroom. Privately educated students make up a staggering 40 per cent of Edinburgh’s student body, with many claiming this has led to an “atmosphere of elitism” and consequents in social divides between students. In response, the university has vowed to create a more welcoming atmosphere through dedicating an “equality, diversity, and inclusion committee” to improve the experience of students.

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Magdalena Kanecka, Rio Worrall, Nina Exton, Elin Gray

Proofers: Gracie Moore, Amy Rushton, Chatlie Gershinson, Agata Koralewska, Rosie Peters-McDonald, Judy Dodd, Charlie McCormack and Lily Moore

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Exeter’s fundraising events in light of Valencia floods

AT the end of October, floods and torrential rain hit the autonomous region of Valencia, where more than 220 people have been confirmed dead. The town of Paiporta was hit hardest with the loss of 60 lives there alone. Climate change has been brought into question as a cause of these floods — mere weeks before COP29 conference, Pedro Sanchéz has publicly addressed the need for tougher goals in slowing climate change. Support from around the world has been shown to Valencia through physical and financial aid, and fundraising events.

According to Statista, there were 176 flood disasters recorded worldwide in 2022. Climate change drives sea level rises and increases the change of extreme weather events, and this has been shown in Valencia. The floods returned to the region two weeks after the initial hit. As much as the region was more prepared, roads became engulfed in water and people became trapped in buildings.

Exeter has a big international student population, many of whom are either Spanish or living in

Spain. In response to these floods, Exeter students have launched a fundraising campaign to provide aid and raise awareness about the crisis.

“Being somebody who lives in Spain, we have to help each other out,” one student shared, explaining why they felt compelled to act and the importance of solidarity within the community. The student campaign, hosted through the Instagram page @valencia_aid_exeteruni, has been promoting awareness and arranging stalls at the University's Forum to gather donations. So far, the initiative has raised £100, with funds being directed to the World Central Kitchen, an organisation dedicated to feeding communities in crisis.

While nothing is set in stone, the students hope to organise a football tournament and quizzes to keep the momentum and engagement going. “For now, it’s about raising awareness and getting people talking.” Every conversation counts. Their mission goes beyond financial targets. According to the students, getting involved is simple: talk about it, spread the word, and help keep the conversation going. Achieving collective action can make a world of difference, regardless of contribution size. Whether donating, spreading awareness, or just having a conversation, Exeter students are showing how much can be achieved

when a community comes together.

Elsewhere, Exeter Hispanic Society organised a sea swim on Sunday 24th November with a voluntary £1 donation. The donation goes towards those who have been affected by the floods in Valencia.

On the floods, Exeter's Students' Guild commented, "we’re heartbroken to see the devastating floods in Valencia and the impact they’ve had on so many lives, including the families of some of our students. The images and stories coming out of the region are deeply moving, and we stand in solidarity with all those impacted by this tragedy.

"Our students have stepped up brilliantly, rallying together to

raise funds and offer support. It’s moments like these that show the power of our community — compassionate, proactive and determined to help.

"We’re proud to support these efforts and encourage you to get involved. Whether it’s joining a fundraiser, sharing initiatives, or simply donating, every little bit counts to support people when they need it most. Got an issue or cause you’re passionate about? Start your own campaign and make your voice heard! Visit exeterguild. com/campaigns to get started."

Students involved in these campaigns are urging others to get involved to help raise awareness and money. If you would like to contribute, you can do so through their Instagram or the QR code:

November snow causes school closures and transport delays across Devon and Cornwall

Rosie Peters-McDonald Deputy Editor

ON 21st November, Exeter woke up to white lawns and frosted trees, but beyond the happy sight of an early winter were delays to rail transport and disruption to schools across Devon and its neighbouring county of Cornwall. More than 130 schools were closed last Thursday, and, according to the National Grid, more than 3,700 homes

across Devon were without power.

In the aftermath of the snowfall on Thursday, ice began to form on roads across Devon, including in Exeter. Devon County Council deployed their gritters at 03:00 GMT the following day, but warned of further ice risk across Friday morning. According to the BBC, a number of schools remained closed on Friday 22nd November. Meanwhile, Great Western Railway announced service disruption because of the weather, warning of cancellations across the south and

Tnorth of Devon, including services passing through Exeter St David’s.

Forecasters measured up to 7.8 inches of snow on Dartmoor, which the BBC described as “more than predicted.” The Met Office subsequently issued a yellow warning for ice until 10:00 GMT on Friday 22nd.

Amid the chaos of Thursday’s weather, a camper was reported lost to North Dartmoor Search and Rescue Team (NDSART). Despite hazardous conditions, including snow drifts which stopped the team’s Land Rover

from progressing, NDSART walked the remaining distance and found the camper, who was returned to safety.

The Daily Mail reported that Cornwall was “hit by 10 inches of snow” on Thursday, describing the weather as the “worst whiteout for 19 years.” The Met Office continued to warn of the “rapid melt of lying snow” and “wintry showers” in Exeter. It is not yet known whether more snow is to come for the city this winter.

Polish WWII bravery honoured in new exhibition

HE Polish 307 Squadron, which bravely defended the Southwest against German bombers in an overnight raid, was honoured in a recent Guildhall Exhibition. The exhibition, which took place from the 13th-15th November, featured squadron memorabilia, information, and screened a film, including interviews with squadron members. It was in Polish and English. Polish Squadron, also called the

Lwow Eagle Owls, were stationed at Exeter Airport and are known for their bravery in the Blitz of Exeter in May 1942. The Polish fighter pilots shot down four German bombers, protecting the lives of many in Exeter.

Now, years later, the squadron is being commemorated by The 307 Squadron Project, which hosted the exhibition. It is a nonprofit organisation that conducts further research on the squadron and aims to promote its role.

On the 15th November, the squadron was further honoured by the Lord Mayor of Exeter raising the

Polish flag over Guildhall. A number of squadron member relatives were in attendance, as well as a squadron veteran who has lived in Exeter since his time in the squad. The exhibition highlighted the importance of commemorating D-Day 80 years on and the value of remembering BritishPolish cooperation.

Flora Runnacles

Image: Exeter ruins, Geograph

Gracie Moore and Isabella van der Putten Editor-in-Chief and News Editor

Image: Isabella van der Putten

Image: Amy Rushton

Image: Evgeniy Isaev, Wikimedia Commons

Continued from the front page

“

THIS city is not safe at all. As a woman I can only go out and about between 8 and 4 as that's the only time that I can guarantee that it will be light. I can no longer go to the activities I want to, I can no longer participate in society events, as they all show a clear disregard for safety, not offering anyone a safe way home besides the drunken stumble home which I will never ever do as I (and I feel really stupid for saying this seeing as no one else cares about it) care about my safety.”

When asked about examples of antisocial behaviour seen on the streets, a few mentioned unpleasant experiences. Sidwell Street has been identified as the least safe in many responses. One respondent stated that they saw a man riding a motorcycle, waving a machete at them. Additionally, an international student said that they have been shouted at and had things thrown on them due to their background.

Urban Angels has become a forum for sharing stories on similar matters, trying to empower voices of people affected by harassment and

“The

Continued from the front page

HOWEVER, some students — while acknowledging the campaign’s educational benefits — thought that the emails were annoying. One student said the emails were “definitely effective but very annoying after the first and second time, feels a bit not needed to do it repeatedly.” Another echoed this sentiment saying “they're really annoying. I understand one or two per term but they feel almost constant.”

“This city is not safe at all”

violence. Many more experiences can be found there, with safety warnings being shared on the page as well.

Urban Angels has become a forum for sharing stories on similar matters

Additional support can be found in Exeter Safe Space, located at St Stephen’s Church on the High Street, and Devon Rape Crisis.

When asked for comment, a spokesperson for the Students' Guild said, "the rising cases of sexual assault in Exeter are deeply concerning, and we stand in solidarity with anyone who has felt unsafe or experienced harassment, abuse, or assault. These experiences can leave a lasting impact, and we want to acknowledge the courage it takes to speak out. Your safety is our top priority, and we’re here to listen, support and act.

"We encourage students to report incidents, whether anonymously or openly, through Exeter Speaks Out (exeter.ac.uk/about/speakout/)

or seek confidential advice from our Advice Team, who provide support tailored to your individual circumstances. Reporting to the police or the University is entirely your choice, and we’re here to guide you without pressure. By sharing your experiences, you help us not only support you but also advocate for stronger preventative measures to protect others.

"Your elected Student Living Officer, Kira Brookes, is actively working on a range of initiatives, from 16 Days of Activism to misconduct reporting processes, to improve the safety and wellbeing of all students. We are committed to creating a campus where everyone feels secure, valued, and heard.

"We recognise that there’s much more to do — in Exeter, across the UK, and around the world — to end sexual violence. Together, we can create meaningful change and build a safer community for everyone."

Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the Unversity said, “the safety and security of all students is our highest priority. We work

closely with other organisations in the community to ensure Exeter remains a safe city. The University is a key partner in the Community Safety Partnership in Exeter which has received significant funding from the Home Office’s Safer Streets Fund to help enhance night-time safety measures across the city centre, including increased CCTV cameras and lighting in locations where women

have reported feeling unsafe, and the Exeter Safe Space in the city centre. Through a previous Safety of Women at Night project, we also launched the Safety Charter that more than 170 businesses across Exeter have signed up to. On campus we have fitted additional lighting and CCTV, and are running bystander intervention and consent training courses."

fee paying email was awful to receive”

Some students went further to describe them as “stressful” as one respondent said they were, “stressful and honestly a bit unnecessary. It adds stress to my day because even though I realise they are phishing tests at first it is a bit of a shock to receive messages saying my accounts have been compromised.”

One particular criticism from multiple students came from one of the phishing emails pertaining to

student finance. The email alleged to be sent from the ‘Student Financial Assistance Team’ and said that “our information indicates that the payment method you used to settle your fee was declined. Contact your bank for more details on the refusal of payment. To avoid interruption of your course, update your personal information now.” A screenshot of this email can be seen to the right.

One student said of this phishing email, “the fee paying email was awful to receive. As someone on student loans I thought my fees hadn’t been paid and spent an evening panicking on who to contact because the email looked legit until the link.” The student went on to say, “thank goodness I clicked on the link, because otherwise I would have been a mess!”

Another said, “the one about student finance payment being rejected was a horrible way to target more disadvantaged students, with which the same type of result could have been made with a mere email from student finance phishing scam as opposed to saying payment had been declined. This was sent at midnight and caused unnecessary anxiety and major stress for folks who are

having financial issues, targeting these people specifically.” The same student went on to criticise the lack of any follow-up emails containing information on financial or mental health support which “should have been a bare minimum after sending such an email.”

“A horrible way to target more disadvantaged students” - Anonymous

A spokesperson for the University

of Exeter said, “University IT services have been running a monthlong campaign to raise awareness of phishing attempts. We would like to thank everyone who has taken part by spotting and reporting phishing posts. “The campaign email was sent from support99master@ docstoreinternal.net under the sender name “Student Finance”. Any suspicious emails should be reported via the Report feature in Outlook, and then deleted. You can find instructions and advice on our website at: https://www. exeter.ac.uk/departments/it/ cybersecurity/phishing/”

Image: Charlie Gershinson

Image: Devon and Cornwall Police, 01/FOI/24/7149

Image: Charlie Gershinson

Amy Rushton Editor-in-Chief

LSection 28 oral histories added to University archives

and created an atmosphere of silence and oppression which still affects those who lived through it today.

AST week saw the 21st anniversary of the repeal of Section 28, and with it the launch of the Section 28 and its Afterlives Oral History Archive. Section 28 and its Afterlives, launched by the University of Exeter with funding from a National Lottery Heritage award, is aimed at raising awareness of Section 28 and its legacies across the South West. The homophobic legislation, launched in 1988 by the Thatcher Government and remaining in place until repeal in 2003, prevented the ‘promotion of homosexuality’, banning discussion of LGBTQ+ lives in local authorities, including schools,

In order to speak back to this silence, Section 28 and Its Afterlives conducted oral history interviews with LGBTQ+ people who lived through Section 28, and used these interviews to form an Exhibition in the Forum last November, which marked the 20th anniversary of the repeal. Since this, the project has expanded, displaying the exhibition across the South West, running creative workshops with artist Chloe Asker, appearing at Pride and speaking to local schools. The latest milestone is the professional transcribing of all interviews in the project so far, allowing for the oral histories to be inputted into an archive. Along with educational resources created for the project, these histories have been inputted into the University of Exeter’s Special Collections to be accessed by researchers and future generations of LGBTQ+ people. The launch brought together interviewees and interviewers from the project, as well as those involved in showcasing Section 28 and its Afterlives through events such as creative workshops, actively working against

the silencing performed by Section 28 through the medium of collage.

Also attending were Special Collections, who have worked to input the oral histories from the project into the University Special Collections archives, so they can be accessed by researchers and preserved for posterity. Also featured at the launch was material already in the Special Collections archive pertaining to Section 28; manuscripts from Exeter based David Rees, whose seminal work The Milkman's On His Way openly featured a gay romance and was subsequently cited within the initial Section 28 legislation, and past copies of Exeposé which explored student resistance to, and life in spite of, Section 28.

Chris Sandal-Wilson, a history lecturer and co-lead on the project said “Section 28 tried to silence LGBTQ+ voices; twenty years on from its repeal in England and Wales, we’ve been working as a team to unsilence those voices and make sure they are put on the historical record.

“Thanks to the tireless work of a brilliant group of young volunteers, and thanks to LGBTQ+ people across the South West who entrusted us with their stories, it’s amazing to think that there now exists this archive of oral histories about Section 28 and its afterlives in the South West. It’s an archive that will be permanently maintained at Special Collections at the University of Exeter, which

means that when future generations look back at this period, they won’t just hear the voices of homophobic lawmakers or journalists — they’ll be able to hear the voices of LGBTQ+ people who were denied information, representation, and support as they were growing up; who were pressured into hiding their true authentic selves in order to continue to be able to teach in schools; and who took to the streets, in protest and in Pride.

“As a project team, we’re really keen to raise awareness of Section 28, its impact, and its legacies; we’ve put together an exhibition,

we’ve spoken at Pride events, we’ve been running collage workshops, and looking forward we’re really excited to be bringing some of the stories that people have shared with us into schools, to support LGBTQ+ groups, and create educational resources for teachers.”

Have you been ‘beaned’ recently?: ‘Beaning’ incidents plague Exeter’s student streets and social media

Rosie Peters-McDonald Deputy Editor

IF you haven’t heard, ‘beaning’ has become a thing across the most student-populated streets of Exeter. Students seem to have taken classic pranks such as knock-downginger up a notch and are now throwing baked beans at people’s front doors (and sometimes at their cars, according to a few posts on the Facebook page Overheard at Uni of Exeter ). The reasons for these ‘beanings’, despite becoming somewhat notable topics of conversation on social media in recent weeks, are still relatively unknown. Many have asked why people are throwing beans at front doors, how they do it without being caught, and whether it is the same people over and over again, or if there are copy-cat bean-throwers around. Exeposé conducted an investigation into the incidents, hoping to find some answers. To figure out whether these ‘beanings’ are just a hot topic on

Overheard at Uni of Exeter, or if they’re actually taking place across the city, we asked students if their front doors, or the front doors of anybody they know, have been ‘beaned’ recently. One student told us: “My friend’s house was beaned recently. It was very strange, just a pile of beans and the can left outside of the front door.” Another stated that their neighbours were beaned, and that said beans were “thrown all over the front door and [in] a small pile in the doorway.”

There were quite a few opinions on these bean incidents and their implications on people’s day-to-day experiences of the city. A few people suggested that the ‘beanings’ are a fun social activity which gets the student community together, with one person saying, “it helps create a stronger bond between students in a jokey and inclusive manner. It feels open to everyone, being posted on Overheard.” Others who found the bean content on Facebook funny still asked questions of why people have been beaned: “Cheating? Mean people? Their own house? I want to know.”

Several others, however, engaged with the less positive aspects of the aftermath of bean incidents: “people think it’s a harmless prank when in reality it makes it a nightmare to walk and a regular working person will have to clean it up.” Beaning, after all, is a form of littering, and, as another student put it, “food wastage.” Another respondent added, “it’s immature, grow up.”

The negative response to beaning also included a comment on how “demoralising [this could] be to someone who is hungry.” Food insecurity has become more prevalent in the UK as the cost-of-living crisis has continued to develop for the worse: according to the House of Commons Library, “more than 655,000 people used a Trussell Trust food back for the first time in 2023/24, in addition to the more than 760,000 first time users in 2022/23.” In line with this sentiment, the same student added, “[it’s] food wastage [which] could be donated to [a] food bank. [It’s] even worse when branded beans are used rather than cheap own brand ones. [It’s] posh

students with no idea of [the] real world.”

Exeposé received one anonymous tip about the origins of ‘beaning’ in Exeter. We were told by a “long-term resident of EX2” that ‘beaning’ was invented “a few years ago, [when people] would buy cans of baked beans and flick them at each other on the way to school back in the early 2000s. […] We had competitive bean flicking at one point, aiming for targets […] which included people’s doors. If you were lucky you could flick your beans outside

someone’s door for a long time until they caught you, [and] then you had to run away. Modern students, as always, taking a good thing and ruining it.”

The question remains, is ‘beaning’ a local tradition, as the respondent above suggested, or a targeted student prank?

And, perhaps more seriously, should we be considering the implications of ‘beanings’ on those who are struggling with the cost-of-living, on street cleaners, and, finally, on local residents of Exeter?

Image: Chris Sandal-Wilson

Image: Section 28 and its Afterlives

Image: Section 28 and its Afterlives

Image: Doctorlizardo, Flickr

In conversation: Mandy Barnes from

Devon

Rape Crisis on the upcoming Reclaim the Night walk and the importance of attending

Nina Exton News Editor

ON the 5th December, people across Exeter will take to the streets in a march for women’s safety, or to ‘reclaim the night’. Exeposé interviewed Mandy Barnes from Devon Rape Crisis, one of the many groups helping organise this event, who spoke of the meaning behind this event, what it will entail, and the importance of volunteering and showing support for women’s safety on the streets.

Reclaim the Night is a march to end gender-based violence and street harassment. With the issue of women’s safety being as expansive and overwhelming as it is, events like

Reclaim the Night help women target specific ways they feel unsafe and empower them to feel in control of their lives. It also both reminds women of the support around them and informs them of different resources they can access in times of need, like Devon Rape Crisis. Mandy believes that though attending this event will not necessarily prevent women from being attacked, it can help women to make connections and feel part of a movement. For victims, she speaks of the isolation of experiencing genderbased violence. This is why Reclaim the Night and the lead-up to it provides important opportunities for people to create networks of support and shared experiences. Over the years, Mandy

has witnessed the kindling of many meaningful friendships at the event.

Here is how the night will go: From 16:30 to 18:15, there will be placard and banner making at Positive Lights Project (184-187 Sidwell Street). This is also a chance for volunteers to meet and bond. There will be a graffiti wall allowing attendees to share their experiences. For women anxious and hesitant to attend, Mandy says being surrounded by like-minded people prior to the march is extremely enriching and supportive. From 18:30 onwards, the walk will take place throughout Exeter City Centre, and end in Bedford Square where a rally will be held. During this rally, attendees will get a chance to hear from various speakers, including Annabel Grace, President of Feminist Society, as well as a local poet and representative from Devon Rape Crisis. Throughout the years, both Exeter College and Exeter University students have been instrumental in the march. According to Mandy, to older generations, this was empowering to witness and passing the baton to younger women renewed their hope in the cause. For students, Mandy has a message. “We want younger people to feel like this is their city. It might only be for a couple of years, but actually this is your home. You have every right to be here, taking up space and feeling like you can walk around the

city and not be scared to come out.”

In 2021, UN Women UK found that full-time students were more likely to experience sexual assault than any other occupational group. Though this is a cause that affects everyone, whether directly or indirectly, it is incredibly important for students to take part.

The march is welcome to people of all genders and walks of life. While the majority of attendees may identify as female, those identifying as male are often in attendance. Despite this inclusivity, organisers of Reclaim the Night ensure it is those who identify as women at the forefront of the event in leadership roles. While the march may seem daunting, especially to those who have experienced gender-based violence and harassment, the organisers of Reclaim the Night do everything in their power to ensure the safety of attendees, including the use of marshals.

The event provides a multitude of volunteer opportunities, with something for everyone depending on how involved you want to get. Those interested can volunteer as marshals, who will help direct the walk and encourage attendees to ignore any negative comments from passersby. You can also help hand out whistles and badges, help attendees feel comfortable, or just attend the walk itself.

When asked for comment, the Students' Guild said: "too many women

experience harassment, violence, abuse, or victim blaming in their lifetime. These experiences can leave lasting impacts and should never be normalised or tolerated — on campus, in our communities, or anywhere.

"Your Students' Guild, in partnership with societies, the University, and external services, is proud to host 16 Days of Activism. This global campaign is a moment to reflect on the stories of survivors, support those affected and come together as a community to demand change.

"Whether you’ve experienced this yourself or stand as an ally, there are meaningful ways to get involved. Join activities like signwriting workshops, safety talks, the Big Night In movie night, or the Reclaim the Night march. We’re also offering free personal safety items like drink covers, bottle tops, and torches to help everyone feel a little more secure.

"This is a time to listen, to learn and to act. Let’s stand together to build a campus where everyone feels valued and safe. Visit exeterguild.com/eventshub to learn more and be part of the change."

Anyone interested in volunteering beyond attending the walk can contact Reclaim the Night on Facebook or email (exeterrtn@hotmail.com).

Youth Demand block Exeter roads in protest

Charlie Gershinson Deputy Editor

YOUTH Demand have conducted a coordinated nationwide protest, including in Exeter, where roads were blocked by protesters.

Two weeks ago, Youth Demand protesters were filmed obstructing traffic across Exeter. In a video posted to the Exeter chapter’s Instagram page, several protesters were filmed holding up cars on busy roads across Exeter such as Prince of Wales Road, outside Streatham Campus and Queen Street. In the post, there is a caption written which says, “young people in Exeter have joined the chaos, as we continue to disrupt for Gaza.”

In a press release sent by Youth

Adrian Jastrzebski

RDemand, Henri — an architecture student from Falmouth who took part in the protest — said, “we must act, not only for our own future but for that of future generations, our children, our friends and ultimately our world as we know it. Why shouldn’t we stand up for what is morally right regardless of consequences and opinions? We know our actions are ridiculed through the media, but we are left with no choice; the system doesn’t represent us. We must resist.”

As well as Exeter, four other cities in the UK also saw disruption by protestors associated with Youth Demand, including London, Leeds, Manchester and Cambridge. Youth Demand have said that this coordinated action was to, “demand a two-way arms embargo on Israel, and for the

UK government to halt all new oil and gas licences granted since 2021.”

When asked for comment, a spokesperson for the Students’ Guild said, “your Students’ Guild are here to help facilitate studentled campaigns and support students in enacting the changes they want to see on campus and within our community. We acknowledge that students have the right to protest safely. The Guild provides resources, including risk assessment templates and guidance, to help students protest responsibly. For further information or advice, get in touch with our Voice team at voice@exeterguild.com.”

Exeposé reached out to Youth Demand for comment but they did not reply at the time of writing.

Exeter subjects ranked among the world’s best

ECENTLY, the University of Exeter showed its prowess nationally and internationally in ‘Green Sciences’, a discipline which focuses on an eco-friendly approach to science. Fully independent

‘ShangaiRanking Consultancy’ published the ‘Academic Ranking of World Universities’ where Exeter ranked as follows: 4th in Ecology, 20th in Earth Sciences, 22nd in Geography, 25th in Atmospheric Science, 37th in Science and Engineering and 43rd in Water Resources. Exeter was ranked between 51st and 100th in Oceanography,

Public Administration and Sociology.

On a national level, ShangaiRanking ranked Exeter as the best in Environment Science and Engineering, 2nd in Earth Sciences and Ecology and 3rd in both Atmospheric Science and Water Resources.

According to ShanghaiRanking, they use “a range of objective academic

indicators and third-party data to measure the performance of world universities in relevant subjects, including categories such as World-Class Faculty, World-Class Output, High-Quality Research, Research Impact and International Collaboration.”

This streak of high rankings in ‘Green Sciences’ could be linked to the opening of the Centre for Resilience

Environment, Water and Waste (CREWW) on Streatham Campus, where funding was routed towards subjects like Geography, Bioscience, Engineering and environmental subjects. With sustainability becoming a more mainstream topic in the scientific field, Exeter’s academic reputation will bring prosperity in the near future.

Image: Movember Foundation, Wikimedia Commons

Image: Alisdare Hickson, Flickr

Image: Livvy Mason-Myhill

In Conversation: Exeter Foodbank on its 16th birthday

Amy Rushton Editor-in-Chief

LAST week, Exeter Foodbank celebrated their birthday, having provided emergency food and support to people across Exeter for 16 years. Exeposé sat down with Mark Richardson from the foodbank to discuss the challenges of supporting a community and how Exeter students can help in the run-up to the winter break.

Exeposé: Can you tell me a little bit about Exeter Food Bank and what you do for the community?

Mark Richardson : This week is our birthday — we are 16 years old. It started in a cupboard in the local YMCA, and it's grown and grown and grown since then.

We distribute food to people who are in an emergency or in crisis — last week we distributed food to 198 people. The other side is we give lots of holistic advice and support work to help people. When we started, we gave food. Now, 16 years on, we're still giving food, but the aim is to help people out further than that.

É: Can you explain a bit about the process of sourcing donations and then categorising and distributing them?

MR: We have about 20 supermarkets with donation points. There's about eight big ones and about 12 small ones. 90 per cent of our donations will come through those little boxes that you see at the end of the supermarket. So in Sainsbury's, Waitrose, Tesco, Co-op, all of those. The remaining 10 per cent will come from schools, churches and individuals. We had about 120 tonnes of donations last year.

The food then gets taken to our store at the Orange Elephant Ice Cream Parlour out in Kennford, and we sort every item by time and date. Teams of volunteers then bring the food to three centers across Exeter. One lady came in this morning, I don’t know who she is, but she donated whole trollies of food.

É: What’s the craziest donation you’ve had?:

MR: We were running low on coffee so put a message out on our social media, and a guy phoned me up and said I want to get some coffee delivered but I can’t get out, can I send it to your house? The next day, my wife phoned up and said "you’ve got to come home." I thought, "that’s ridiculous just put it on the side," but when I got home there were 508 jars of coffee granules on a pallet. Who this guy is, I don’t know, but it was an absolute minimum of £2500 — probably more.

I know it sounds ridiculous, but that kind of thing happens all the time. People are just kind. The worst thing is, you kind of get used to the kindness and it doesn’t shock you anymore,

it feels normal. But it is abnormal, and it happens all the time to us.

É: Could you tell me a little bit about the importance of offering clients choice in food banks?

MR: So when you see a foodbank portrayed on TV, it often shows people just being given a bag. I think that's as depressing as it gets because when you’re in situations of poverty or very low income, the first thing that goes is choice. And we felt really strongly that we should do it differently, and this has caught on to a lot of places now. So we’ve made it as much like shopping as you can. People come in, we give them a shopping list and trolley and ask them to pick things from each crate, so they can choose the things they want.

To be able to offer that choice is really important. It can’t be exactly like shopping but within the confines of what we do, we try and give as much choice as we can. We felt it wasn’t dignified to just been given a bag of things you didn’t like anyway.

É: Does that help you to cater for different dietary requirements?

MR: Culturally, Exeter has changed a lot in the eight years I’ve been here. We’re managing different clients' needs, and because of the way we do it the food is there to choose. So, we don’t do a gluten free box, or a halal box or vegan box. People can come in and choose what they want, so we can cater for most things. Some people have got very complex dietary needs because of their health and that will then impact their financial struggle, so it’s quite common in foodbanks. Because of the choice we offer, they don’t have to be embarrassed about being a special case. Sometimes though, we are able to go and buy food if there are specific things they need.

É: Where does funding come from?

MR: Kind people. We get no statutory funding, all of our funding comes from people who donate. When we moved into our new venue, we had a grant to do renovation work, but other than that, it all comes from Exeter public.

É: Have you witnessed much of a rise in food poverty

in Exeter in recent years?

MR: Eight years ago our average was 92 people a week. Last week was 198 and that was a quiet week — now heating is turning on, it will increase in the next few weeks. It has certainly more than doubled since I started.

É: Can you explain the process of getting help through the foodbank?

MR: So, what we do is we select the partners that we work with. If you needed help today, you would be referred by someone who offers help in Exeter. For example, if it was a housing issue, you’d probably go to City Council; if it was addiction, you’d have somebody helping you through that; if you’ve got children, you might get a referral through their primary school or by a GP.

Generally, money itself isn’t the problem, it's the situation that is the root cause. By having this referral system and a good relationship with referrers, we’re giving the food as part of the solution, not covering up the problem.

É: How can readers get involved and help out?

MR: The thing we need most at the moment — it's sounds so obvious — is food. There were times earlier this year where, when we looked at our stock report, there was a lot of red on it. Some items like pasta and baked beans we’re good at, but we need tins of meat, fruit and vegetables. If you keep up to date with our website or Facebook page, we regularly post priority items.

The other thing is keeping politically engaged and following local campaigns. At the moment, Trussel Trust and Joseph Rowntree Foundation are running a project to Guarantee our Essentials, and it's about lobbying the government to make sure that the basic rate of benefits is enough to survive. So, the short answer is a tin of baked beans, but the long answer is being aware and adding your voice to campaigns and petitions.

É: Which campaigns are the Foodbank working on at the moment?

MR: The essentials campaign is the biggie. A lot of the people receiving benefits are so overwhelmed that they’re not able to campaign,

it’s the people who are not in that situation that can raise awareness because they’re not constantly thinking: how am I going to get dinner tonight? They’re thinking: how can this situation be changed? Students are really important in this because they haven’t become cynical yet. I still think things can change but a lot of people have given up on that aspiration, and the thing I love about working with young people is the passion and belief that the status quo doesn’t have to stay the same.

For Christmas, we’re asking people to donate standard items but we’re also doing ‘Christmas in a Bag’ so we can give people treats, chocolate, biscuits, a game of cards, crackers, that kind of thing. Some poeple won’t be able to buy anything out of the ordinary this Christmas. It’s not about the food, it’s about someone out there caring enough to do it.

When Exeposé approached the Students' Guild for a comment

on donating over Christmas, a spokesperson said: "Donating food before heading home for the holidays is a brilliant way to make a real difference this festive season and reduce food waste. "If you’ve got unopened, non-perishable items you won’t be using, consider dropping them off before you leave. Your generosity could make someone’s Christmas that much brighter." Drop-off points in Exeter include Sainsbury’s and Wilkos in the Guildhall Shopping Centre, Co-op on Old Tiverton Road and The Minto Methodist Church on Fore Street. An up-to-date list of priority items can be found via the Exeter Food Bank website. Follow the QR code to find priority items and read more about The Guarantee our Essentials and Christmas in Bag campaigns.

Image: Exeter Foodbank

Honor Borley

Bella MacLusky

Global Feminism in crisis

Aarushi Shrivastav considers the challenges to Women’s Rights in the global political climate and how we can respond

THE erosion of women’s rights has become a pressing global concern, with policies and social movements threatening the autonomy and dignity of women in diverse societies. From the proposed amendments to Iraq’s personal status law, seeking to lower the legal age of consent to nine, to the systematic oppression of women under the Taliban in Afghanistan, these alarming developments highlight the fragility of progress and the urgent need for unified action. Similarly, ideological divides in the United States, reflected in the rollback of reproductive rights and the rise of conservative movements, underscore the complexity and diversity of women’s experiences and struggles.

One of the most striking examples is Iraq’s proposed amendment to its personal status law, reducing the legal age of consent for girls from eighteen to nine. This extreme measure is part of a wider disturbing trend of women’s rights violations, thus calling for immediate and concerted efforts to promote and defend women’s rights.

Iraq’s 1959 personal status law, once hailed as a progressive safeguard for women’s rights, is under threat from a conservative Shia Muslim coalition within parliament. If the amendment passes, not only would it permit child marriage, but it would also strip women of critical rights, including divorce, custody and inheritance. Activists have issued warnings that this amendment might likely serve to legitimise abuse against children as well as entrench gender discrimination. Dr. Renad Mansour argues that

such reforms are directed towards enhancing religious authority while also exacerbating sectarianism.

Unsurprisingly, the proposal has sparked outrage. The Coalition 188 and other women’s rights movements have organised protests condemning the change by calling it a regressive attack on basic rights and freedom. Similar concerns have been raised by international organisations such as Human Rights Watch, which underlines the threats which are posed by heightened societal divisions and discrimination, which is enforced through structures.

In the United States, the election of Donald Trump — a president who is known to be sexist and has proudly admitted responsibility for overturning Roe v Wade — is a stark regression in women’s autonomy. Despite this, nearly half of all female voters supported Donald Trump and his movement to “Make America Great Again” (MAGA) — showcasing the deep division amongst women in the US, demonstrating the diversity of women’s experiences often preventing the establishment of a cohesive plan. Historically within the US, right-wing women have opposed movements which have sought to advance their collective rights, from the time of suffrage to desegregation. However, conservative women today champion traditional roles — viewing them as a source of empowerment. The rise and glorification of ‘tradwives’ on social media reflects the ethos, where supporting a husband’s career or maintaining a household is being celebrated as a meaningful choice amid systemic in-

equities. This contrasts sharply with the liberal feminist emphasis on workplace equality and bodily autonomy, underscoring ideological divides.

Nearly half of all female voters supported Donald Trump and his movement to “Make America Great Again”

Women’s struggles are particularly evident in Afghanistan, where the Taliban has institutionalised gender oppression since their return to power in 2021. There have been over seventy decrees passed to systematically strip women of education, employment and mobility — effectively erasing them from public life. By 2023, 80 per cent of school-aged girls were taken out of school and banned from pursuing higher education as well as being part of the workforce, with devastating consequences for their futures and the Afghan economy.

The Taliban’s draconian policies extend to nearly every aspect of women’s lives. There are restrictions on women’s ability to move and dress with mandatory burqas and a requirement for men to accompany women to travel. These rules aim to confine women to their home. Additionally, bans on employment in NGOs supporting women’s rights as well as the closure of female-led businesses further isolate them. Imposing rules which result in forced

marriages, rising maternal mortality and silencing women’s voices in decision making compound the crisis. Such systems are designed to foster inequality and sustain male dominance for several decades. This crisis calls for solidarity on an international scale. The predicament faced by these women reflects the wider perspective on the issues of women’s rights worldwide. Their courage demands international attention and concrete support, including funding for women-led advocacy against oppressive regimes, and sustained global pressure to safeguard human rights.

The Assisted Dying Bill: what is it and why is it important?

Flora Runnacles explores different opinions on the polarising End of Life Bill

KIM Leadbeater MP has formally proposed the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill in parliament, and with MPs voting on the 29th November, there has been much discussion about the ethics of assisted dying. Dignity in Dying, a pro-assisted dying campaign, states that “around 300 million people around the world have legal access to some form of assisted dying”, including Switzerland, where as -

sisted suicide is legal, and New Zealand, which passed a law for assisted dying. Despite this widespread access, a common misunderstanding with bills of this nature is terminology; it is important to distinguish between various forms of assisted dying. The BBC states that assisted dying “refers to a person who is terminally ill receiving lethal drugs from a medical practitioner, which they administer themselves.” and this is what the proposed bill suggests. Assisted suicide refers to helping someone end their life, including people who are not terminally ill. Euthanasia is deliberately ending someone’s life, with or without consent. Non-voluntary euthanasia is often seen in cases where a person is in a coma.

The proposed Terminally Ill Adults Bill is highly nuanced and has several requirements that people would need to meet before being approved for assisted dying. For example, applicants must be over 18, residents of England and Wales, registered with a GP for at least 12 months, expected to die within six months, mentally capable of making the choice, and be free from coercion. Legislative safeguards state that two doctors must be satisfied that a person is eligible, applicants must make two separate declarations about their wish to die and a high court judge must hear from one doctor, and can question the applicant at any stage.

Sky News reports that “a split is emerging in the cabinet,” with several members and MPs having differing views on the bill. Prime Minister Keir Starmer has yet to comment on his stance on the bill, although he has reportedly rebuked the health secretary for repeatedly stating he is against it. But why is the bill so divisive?

Critics argue that ensuring safeguards are followed and effective is an impossible feat, particularly when concerning whether a person’s decision is voluntary or rather a result of coercion and whether the approval from doctors — who only know a snippet of the person’s life is an effective safeguarding method. They also argue that terminally ill people may experience differing attitudes to healthcare, increasing personal feelings of being a burden or fears of receiving improper healthcare from doctors. Instead, it is suggested that more focus should be put on ensuring terminally ill patients have high-quality palliative care. Opposers of the bill also state that the normalisation of assisted dying may lead to wider eligibility criteria causing it to become assisted suicide. According to Sky News, Canada serves as an example, with the assisted dying law being expanded to include mentally ill people in 2027.

Supporters of the bill argue that people with terminal illnesses deserve to have the choice of how they die. The British Medical Association

highlight that even with high-quality palliative care, terminally ill people may still experience suffering, forcing people to experience this against their will is “incompatible with the values of 21stcentury medicine”. The Campaign for Dignity in Dying reports that “every eight days one Briton travels abroad to die,” suggesting an issue with the current law. This option is also only available to those who have the funds to do so which means people may end their lives sooner than they want because they need to be well enough to travel. Additionally, people argue that guidance for UK end-of-life practices already includes safeguarding methods that could be used just as effectively in the Assisted Dying Bill. As we get closer to the voting date, the Terminally Ill Adults Bill pushes British politicians, cabinet members and citizens to confront the difficult question: what does it mean to die with dignity? Ultimately, the decision will prompt further discussions into the debate of whether giving people the right to choose how they die or practising caution is more important.

What does it mean to die with dignity?

FEATURES EDITOR:

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Image: Roger Harris, Wikimedia Commons

Archbishop of Canterbury’s resignation: The Church and its history of scandal

Shagnick Bhattacharya discusses the history and background of the debacle currently engulfing the Church of

THE announcement of the resignation of the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, on the 12th November brought renewed scrutiny to the Church of England’s longstanding history of scandals. Following immense public pressure due to revelations from the Makin Report which detailed systemic failures in addressing abuse allegations, Welby’s departure underscores the Church’s struggle with accountability and its modern identity. The John Smyth case, involving a prominent barrister and leader of Christian summer camps, epitomises the Church’s failure to protect the vulnerable, as Smyth’s abuse of young boys in the 1970s and 1980s was concealed for decades. Reports have revealed that Church leaders, aware of the abuse, prioritised institutional reputation over justice. Smyth was practically allowed to continue his abuses in Zimbabwe, where a child died under suspicious circumstances at one of his camps. It wasn’t until 2017, following media investigations, that the full extent of his actions surfaced, leading to an independent review condemning the Church’s handling of the case. However, the Smyth scandal is not an isolated incident but is rather indicative of a larger problem plaguing the Anglican Church for a long time. At largely the same timeline as Smyth, Peter Ball, a former Bishop of Gloucester, was also exploiting his ecclesiastical authority to sexually abuse young men and boys from the 1970s

through the ’90s. Ball used to present himself as a spiritual guide, coercing his victims under the guise of religious discipline. Complaints against Ball surfaced as early as 1992 when a victim disclosed his abuse. However, Ball escaped prosecution through an intervention allegedly facilitated by influential allies, including a member of the royal family. Instead of facing justice, he received a caution and was allowed to resign quietly, retaining his title and privileges within the Church. It wasn’t until 2015 that Ball was convicted of indecent assaults and misconduct in public office. By then, his abuse had gone on for decades, with survivors reporting lifelong trauma because of one man who was allowed to continue in his position and whose crimes were conveniently covered up by the Church. A 2017 inquiry into the case found the institution complicit in shielding Ball, prioritising its reputation over the wellbeing of victims. Public apologies followed, but the perception of a self-serving institution unwilling to confront its darkest truths severely tarnished the Church’s credibility.

His abuse had gone on for decades, with survivors reporting lifelong trauma because of one man

Another scandal from four to five decades ago involved the Kendall House, which was a Church of England-run home for vulner-

England

able girls, that also became a site of systematic abuse. Residents were subjected to a regime of forced sedation, physical punishment and psychological torment. A 2016 review revealed that girls as young as 11 were over-medicated with tranquilisers and psychotropic drugs, often against their will, leaving many unable to resist physical or sexual abuse by staff members. When survivors eventually accused the Church of failing to acknowledge the extent of harm inflicted, the institution’s response to the revelations were slow and defensive. While the Church ultimately issued an apology and promised reforms, survivors emphasised that these actions came decades too late.

Both the Peter Ball and Kendall House cases highlight patterns of abuse enabled by clerical privilege and a culture of silence. These cases, alongside the John Smyth scandal, demonstrate

the Church’s recurring tendency to prioritise institutional preservation over justice for survivors. Each scandal has eroded public trust in recent years, emphasising the need for transparency and survivor-focused reforms. While Justin Welby’s resignation is directly related to the mishandling of the Smyth case, it reflects the cumulative burden of all these scandals. Welby’s tenure saw attempts at safeguarding reforms, including independent inquiries and updated guidelines. However, critics argue that these measures often lacked urgency and failed to address deeper structural flaws. Welby’s departure may mark the beginning of a leadership transition aimed at rebuilding trust, but it also highlights unresolved questions about the Church’s future. Can it meaningfully atone for past failures while maintaining its relevance in a modern, secular society?

Tax increases on landlords: what this could mean for students and renters

Rosie Peters-McDonald, Deputy Editor, analyses what the Budget means for those involved in the property market

AS part of the £40bn increase in tax announced in the Budget back in October, the stamp duty surcharge is to increase to five per cent, up from three per cent, on properties worth up to £250,000. This refers to the additional tax on those who own more than one property, and is also known as Higher Rates for Additional Dwellings (HRAD). For properties worth more than £250,000, stamp duty surcharge is also set to increase. This part of the Budget may seem less important to many students: we’ve not even graduated yet, why should we worry about taxes on landlords? According to gov.uk , the average mean age for first time buyers in 2022-23 was 34 years. Yet tax incidence — i.e., the passing of the cost of the tax from property buyer to renter — could in fact mean that we are impacted as renters, even if we don’t own property.

Yet tax incidence [...] could in fact mean that we are impacted as renters

Average rent in Exeter has skyrocketed the past few years. Just a glance at the University’s accommodation website demonstrates this.

In 2023-24, an en-suite, self-catered room in Birks Grange Village would have set you back about £7,125.66. This academic year, students are paying £7,951.50 altogether — that’s a jump of £825.84 for the year. Outside of university halls, individual private landlords seem to be increasing rent disproportionately from year to year. Perhaps an advantage of letting properties to new — and potentially unknowing — students each year is that one can increase their rental prices without much fuss. While it’s economically predictable that some of the increased tax burden will be passed from landlord to renter, according to yourmoney. com , average private rents in the UK are already up by 8.7 per cent in comparison to October 2023. In Exeter specifically, private rents rose to an average of £1,235 in October 2024 in comparison to a year prior, which is a 6.1 per cent increase. The Office for National Statistics claims that this is similar to the rise in rent prices across the South West. Rents in the UK are now at the highest rate on record. With the current cost of living crisis, despite inflation falling to 2.3 per cent in October, there is a high likelihood that the increased tax burden passed onto renters will have the potential to worsen the costs-of-living for the 19 per cent of the popula-

The increased tax burden passed onto renters will have the potential to worsen the cost-ofliving

How will this affect landlords? A website called UK Landlord Tax claims that there is “no doubt [stamp duty surcharge] will have some impact on landlords’ ROI [rate of inflation] and will need to be factored in when making purchases.” They have also advised that “landlords and property investors should consider how these changes impact their buying strategies.”

The likely increase in rental prices in the coming year has led to a call for more affordable housing. The Big Issue has claimed that homelessness has increased dramatically in England “due to sky-high rents,” though the Labour government has pledged to build over a million new homes and prioritise social rent properties, perhaps a necessary measure considering the implications of rent inflation on those struggling with the cost-of-living. The NRLA, too, have

suggested that “further tax hikes on the rental market would serve only to hurt tenants.” The overall consensus seems to be that owning multiple properties will become less profitable for landlords, while private renters will suffer from heightened costs amid a market which hasn’t shown signs of slowing rent inflation down.

tion who rent privately in the UK as of 2024.

Image: Spencer Means, Wikimedia Commons

Image: Simon Dawson, via Flickr

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CLIMATE

EDITOR: Charlie Gershinson

Exeter awarded Responsible Futures accreditation

Juliette Grammer investigates a recent climate achievement by the University and Guild

THE University of Exeter, alongside the Exeter Students’ Guild and Falmouth & Exeter Students’ Union, has been awarded joint Responsible Futures accreditation. This recognition emphasises the University’s commitment to embedding sustainability into all aspects of student learning.

Responsible Futures is a national change-making program developed by Students Organising for Sustainability UK (SOS-UK) to drive change within higher education. The program encourages universities to assess how they foster a culture of sustainability. By promoting a shared commitment between the institution and its student unions, the program seeks to embed sustainability comprehensively across all areas of university life.

At Exeter, the accreditation pro-

Annabel

cess involved an externally assessed audit conducted by a team of students, educators and union representatives. This inclusive approach provides more meaningful recommendations to help the University equip students with the skills and experience needed to thrive as global citizens. Throughout the audit, the Responsible Futures team have created valuable resources empowering and supporting students in voicing their opinions on sustainability at Exeter.

Notably, Exeter is now the first and only Russell Group University to receive a full Responsible Futures Accreditation. This achievement marks a significant milestone in the University’s journey toward sustainable education and provides a clear roadmap for ongoing progress.

This accreditation means that the University now has a clearer idea

of how Exeter students perceive the quality of sustainable education, both in the curriculum and extracurricular activities. These key findings have resulted in a clear and audited set of priorities to address over the next two years. This significant progress reflects Exeter’s dedication to embedding sustainability and social responsibility into every aspect of the student experience. It also highlights the strong collaboration between the University, students, academics and partners in driving creative and meaningful changes.

Berit Harwood, the Responsible Futures Communications and Research Intern, noted “The RF Exeter team has really made it a priority to listen to and engage with students to let them aid in developing sustainable education at the University.

I felt like my voice always had a place during the evidence collection process, and the other interns and I tried our best to make sure that students across a variety of disciplines felt the same regarding sustainability at uni.”

The Sustainable Education Project Manager on the Sustainability Team, Bethany Lewis, commented, “whilst it is great news for the University and both student unions that we have achieved full accreditation, our Responsible Futures work was much more focused on understanding how our students feel about our quality of sustainable education, and empowering them to get involved. Throughout the two years, a great team of academics, staff and students have worked hard to evaluate our current initiatives, highlight strengths, and fill any gaps we may come across. The best part

for me has always been working with student interns and facilitators to give them the tools to lead change at all levels of the University. We are so proud to see that SOS believes in our educational delivery for students, and now we are working to improve even further, until the next audit in two years’ time. There is always more work to be done!”

Although Exeter has achieved the accreditation, there are still steps to take. The University must review and act on the audit findings while exploring innovative ways to engage with students and gather their perspectives on sustainability across the institution. For further details on the Responsible Futures initiative or to join the working group, please email b.lewis6@exeter.ac.uk.

Devon council given funding boost for net-zero projects

Gowling previews

the improvements in net zero programmes coming to the region

£10

NTEW funding has been injected into Devon and Torbay, focusing on several key areas to achieve their netzero goals. These projects focus on energy efficient housing and decarbonisation of poorly performing council-owned homes. The planned improvements include retrofitting 50 councilowned homes with energy efficient measures, £2 million being directed to improve insulation, installing solar panels, and upgrading to low carbon heating systems. Over time, the programme will scale up to 4,800 council-owned homes.

In Torbay and North Devon, affordable housing initiatives are put in place. Torbay will see refurbishment of 36 holiday homes into affordable, energy efficient homes, while North Devon is upgrading substandard properties in Ilfracombe to energy efficient standards. Housing shortages can be a large contributor to carbon emissions, with increasing unsustainable living standards — West Devon and South Hams are addressing these housing shortages, while implementing energy efficient measures and creating sustainable housing solutions. Moreover, change starts with education — Exeter College will implement

a Green Energy training programme, boosting the local workforce’s knowledge in the importance of the netzero project and sustainable living. For example, South Devon College provides green energy training equipment to teach students and professionals about sustainable technologies, establishing the region as a hub for green education, creating a pipeline of talent for local businesses and supporting the transition to net-zero.

Furthermore, the funding enables investment in innovative renewable energy projects. As seen in South Hams and Teignbridge — South Hams exploring the feasibility of a

solar powered electric vehicle, encouraging green transportation and reducing the dependence on fossil fuels. Teignbridge has been looking into a geothermal well near Newton Abbot, which may potentially serve as an alternative revenue of sustainable and renewable energy. Business ventures can be a vital player when it comes to lower carbon emissions, local businesses are encouraged to adopt sustainable technologies, like solar panels and energy-efficient systems. In turn, this reduces operational emissions across the business sector in Devon.

million centre launched to research health impacts of climate change

Eloise Grainger, Sport Editor, looks into the University of Exeter’s new research centre

HE negative impacts of climate change are well researched and documented but the net positive solutions to these are still up in the air, particularly regarding the impact of environmental changes to human health. The University of Exeter is launching a £10 million centre to focus research specifically on tackling the health impacts of climate change. Based on the Cornwall campus of the Russell Group university, the centre has partners with the UK Health Security Agency, the National Trust, Forest Research, the Met Office and

other organisations and is funded by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI). Heatstroke, air pollution linked to coronary heart disease, and the increased likelihood of pandemics are all climate related health problems. The wake of the Covid-19 pandemic shows how even more prevalent these issues are across the globe and how urgent these net positive solutions are needed.

Staff across the UK are working towards mitigating these impacts. Professor Tim Taylor from the University of Exeter, who leads this new centre, notes that there

are both direct climate related impacts, such as heat related illnesses, and indirect health concerns, such as impacts to our food systems. The damage climate change can incur on the environment and on the human body is widespread and far reaching, infiltrating numerous aspects of people’s lives.

These issues aren’t future projections, however — they are being felt right now.

Professor Isabel Oliver, Chief Scientific Advisor, UKHSA, stresses that the decisions we make today “will determine the severity and extent of climate impacts” that will be inherited by the next generation.

Strong evidence-led decision making is key.

The Centre for Net Positive Health and Climate Solutions aims to compile sound evidence to contribute to scientific understanding as well as inform policymakers so that the right steps can be taken. The project needs to ensure that the measures that are taken based on its findings don’t exacerbate existing inequalities in communities that are most impacted by climate change.

The centre will engage with the public and policy makers and will be an interdisciplinary research project to address climate-environment-health inequalities.

Image: Rayhan9d via Wikimedia Commons

Image: Rayhan9d, Wikimedia Commons

Image:David Smith, Geograph

Image: Keven Law, Wikimedia Commons

University of Exeter at COP29

Amy

Rushton

and

Charlie Gershinson,

Senior Editors, review the University’s contributions to COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan

THE 2024 United Nations Conference of the Parties in Baku, Azerbaijan, known as COP29, was the latest international summit dealing with the ongoing threat and impact of climate change as well as sustainable solutions to combat it. The programme for the conference, which went on from the 11th-22nd November, dealt with a wide range of themes and issues. These include an Energy/ Peace, Relief and Recovery Day, a Science, Technology and Innovation Day and a Human Development/Child Development/Health/Education Day, to name a few. The University of Exeter has sent a delegation to Baku for the Conference, including Stuart

Brocklehurst, the Deputy ViceChancellor for Business Engagement and Innovation, along with many others. The University of Exeter is renowned for environmental research and so the work of Exeter-based researchers and climate scientists plays a key role at COP. From climate-based arts project We Are the Possible, to the QS roundtable on sustainability in higher education, University experts played a wide ranging role across COP events. Below are a few of the projects which members of the University of Exeter have been working on in preparation for COP29.

WE Are the Possible builds on a programme combining climate science with art and culture, which began at COP26. Led by the University of Exeter, for this conference, We Are the Possible has collated an anthology of short stories inspired by climate scientists, educators, artists and youth leaders.

For the 12 days of COP29, it brings 12 stories to Baku to be shared with world leaders and delegates. In addition to this anthology, We Are the Possible explores other forms of art to channel messages about the climate and sustainability. Through the Schools Across the Ocean programme, the Baku conference will showcase cardboard cartoons co-created by schoolchildren across the UK, UAE and Azerbaijan.

The project team has further explored stories from the new anthology through the form of theatre, working in collaboration with Dunya School at Khazar University in Azerbaijan to produce ‘Bright Light Burning’. It has also celebrated Azerbaijan’s culture of carpet weaving with the Chelebi, or Sunburst, carpet, which features ecological motifs.

Dr Sally Flint, Creative Lead, said “We Are the Possible is an innovative international, interdisciplinary, award-winning programme

Global Carbon Budget

ONE of Exeter’s primary contributions to the conference involved the Global Carbon Budget — an annual report on carbon emissions presented by Stephen Sitch, Alissa Haward and Mike O’Sullivan, from the Faculty of Environment, Science and Economy. The budget found that global carbon emissions had reached a record high in 2024, projecting emissions of 37.4 billion tonnes — up

0.8 per cent from 2023. Nevertheless there is “no sign” that the world has reached peak CO2 emissions.

Global carbon emissions had reached a record high in 2024

Both fossil and land-use CO2 emissions are set to rise, increasing the level of CO2 present in the at-

We Are the Possible: The Land of Fire

that since the COP26 climate conference in Glasgow, has been uniting science, health, education, culture, storytelling and the arts to communicate and show that the need for climate action is urgent, and a greener, more equitable world is possible to policy makers and the public.

The need for climate action is urgent, and a greener more equitable world is possible to policy makers and the public Dr Sally Flint

“We are the Possible begins in collaborative creative workshops in which scientists, health experts, educators, youth leaders, students, artists and translators from all around the world generously take part to share writing, climate research, facts and feelings. This year, for COP29, over 400 people took part in the creative part of the programme, and their submissions have been woven together through our unique editing process, and We Are the Possible —

The Land of Fire — 12 stories for 12 Days of COP29 was launched

at the start of the conference.”

Director, Cecilia Manosa Nyblon says “it is vital young people get their climate messages seen and heard at COP climate conferences. Therefore, we hugely value their contributions and support.”

Leyla Hasanova, Youth Climate Champion for COP29 recorded the foreword to the anthology, stating “the stories remind us of the role we all must play in driving solidarity for a greener world.”

Flint provided more background into the creative projects involved: “In Azerbaijani tradition, these new narratives have unexpectedly inspired the design and weaving of a new carpet by students and academics at Khazar University, leaving a very special legacy. The British Council, British Embassy, AHRC and Met Office UK support the programme.

“An innovative education strand, Schools Across the Ocean, is working with teachers and children in UK, UAE and Azerbaijan. For COP29, children’s outputs included films, climate cartoons and posters are displayed at COP29, stating in the children’s words: “We Want the Grown Ups to Act Now.” Stories help us understand the world — what’s at stake — and that there is hope.”

mosphere and driving global warming.

Stephen Sitch, professor in Physical Gegraphy at the University of Exeter and panelist at the presentation of the budget in Baku, stated: “Unfortunately, fossil fuels have still increased this year, we were hoping to reach peak emissions. We need steep declines in emissions if we are to avoid dangerous climate change. With current emissions we will reach 1.5 Degrees Celsius in 6 years.”

Image: University of Exeter, We Are the Possible

Image: University of Exeter, We Are The Possible

Comment

Justin Welby: a dereliction of duty

Victoria White examines the ongoing scandal regarding the Archbishop of Canterbury

JUSTIN Welby, the Archbishop of Canterbury, has announced his resignation amidst ongoing scrutiny over the Church of England’s handling of historic abuse cases, particularly those involving John Smyth, a notorious serial child abuser. Smyth’s abuses, spanning decades, were enabled by systemic failures within the Church and its affiliated organisations.

This scandal has prompted critical questions about leadership accountability and the institution’s moral responsibility. Welby, who worked at the Iwerne camps where much of Smyth’s abuse occurred, has faced increasing criticism for his response to the allegations once they surfaced.

This scandal has prompted critical questions about leadership accountability and the institution’s moral responsibility

In a statement acknowledging his resignation, Welby admitted, “It is very clear that I must take personal and institutional responsibility” for his handling of the case. Despite his

SHOULD journalists be visited by the police over something mean they post online?

Allison Pearson, a Daily Telegraph journalist, was visited by the police over an ancient tweet which caused “racial hatred” that was a “Non Crime Hate Incident” (NCHI).

In Novermber 2023, in a tweet which has now been deleted, Pearson posted a photgraph of police officers standing next to two men holding a Pakistani political party’s flag, which she captioned “Jew haters,” presumably assuming an inccorect relationship between the men and pro-Palestinian protests occuring around the same time. Due to her status, this has opened another can of worms for the government. NCHIs in of itself are an absurd phenomenon, the police should decide whether something is a hate

claim of ignorance about Smyth’s actions at the time, survivors have expressed deep frustration at the Church’s failure to act more decisively after the allegations came to light.

A recent independent report revealed that the Church’s inaction was a “missed opportunity” to bring Smyth to justice before his death in 2018. Survivors of Smyth’s abuse have spoken out about feeling ignored and disbelieved by the institution, with safeguarding measures often described as inadequate or inconsistently applied.

While Welby’s leadership has been marked by public apologies and some reforms, many argue that these efforts have fallen short in addressing the scale of the Church’s failures.

This raises the critical question: should scrutiny extend beyond Welby himself? The answer is unequivocally yes. While Welby bears significant responsibility, the systemic failures that enabled Smyth’s abuse require a more comprehensive investigation. The Church must confront uncomfortable truths about its governance structures, cultural norms and safeguarding processes. The resignation of a single individual, no matter how prominent, cannot substitute for deeper institutional accountability.

Policing or intimidation?

crime and therefore contravenes the law — the idea of having them telling off individuals for writing not very nice stuff on twitter without committing any crime, is almost satirical. Now obviously genuine hate crimes should be dealt with by the police. Much of the anti-semetic language at demonstrations, along with much of the Islamaphobic rhetoric used by far right groups during the riots last year, have been effectively dealt with by the police. However these have not been issued for hate crimes committed, but a “hate incident” (which roughly translates to someone called me stupid on Twitter).

A Freedom of Information request has shown that the police have investigated children as young as nine, with many other concerning stories coming to

light. The Home Office is now reviewing NCHIs to ensure they are “proportionate and necessary”. It is not excessive to suggest that this is a clear example of Government overreach. People, especially journalists, should not be policed for posts online where a “crime has not been committed”. Veteran Labour MP Graham Stringer stated during Prime Minister’s Questions that he had concern for freedom of press, stating that police should “deal with shoplifting, burglaries and other crimes, rather than intimidating journalists”. Freedom of speech is not just a right wing populist soundbite, it does matter and should not be taken for granted. Putting claims of Government overreach aside, Police in England and Wales have reported over a hundred thousand hate incidents in a decade. In the past three years, the

As a powerful institution, the Church has considerable moral and social influence. Therefore, unchecked authority within its walls presents significant risks. To move forward, the Church must embrace full transparency and commit to safeguarding as a non-negotiable value at its core.

As a powerful institution, the Church has considerable moral and social influence

Welby’s departure marks a pivotal moment for the Church of England. While his acknowledgment of personal responsibility is important, it must be followed by an institutional reckoning. Only by fully addressing past failures and implementing robust safeguarding reforms can the Church begin to rebuild trust and provide justice for those it has long failed to protect.

As the Church’s lead safeguarding bishop, Joanne Grenfell, noted, Welby’s resignation “does not absolve any of us from bringing about the wholesale changes in culture and leadership that are essential.”

burglary clear up rate has been at 3.9 per cent — with many swathes of England becoming lawless. This is mostly likely due to cuts to the policing budget rather than anything else, however what sort of message does it send to the public whose confidence in policing is at an all time low? Therefore it does not take a genius to come to the conclusion with exhausted police resources, their time should be better spent policing actual crimes that have actually been committed.

Tom Richardson, Comment Editor, discusses the Non Hate Crime Incident surronding Allison Pearson

Image: Flickr

How should Labour tackle Trump?

Comment writers debate whether they should attempt cordial relations with the incoming President

WITH the recent re-election of Donald Trump in the United States, many are wondering what this will mean for us across the Atlantic. Keir Starmer was quick to congratulate Trump on his victory, and media outlets have since suggested that there is a shift in Keir Starmer’s Labour Party’s priorities to be expected in the upcoming months, especially those concerning international issues.

Whereas this is to be expected to some extent, given the mere political leanings of the Republican VS Labour parties, Starmer takes a different stance to that of Trump. This is shown in crucial policy areas such as foreign policy, global trade and humanitarian conflicts such as Ukraine or Israel and Palestine — which has only made the public wonder how the two key G7 nations will deal with the possible conflicts of interests that are bound to arise.

Starmer takes a different stance to that of Trump

Starmer himself aside, when examining the current Labour Party cabinet, the current foreign secretary, David Lammy, has previously voiced his opinions about Trump, calling him a “racist KKK and Nazi sympathiser” and a “neo-Nazi sympathising sociopath.”

On the other hand, Nigel Farage from the Reform UK Party, which currently holds five seats in Parliament, continues to maintain and celebrate his positive and growing relationship with Trump. If Reform were in power, I’m sure the re-election of Trump would be excellent news, but for Labour, not so much.

There is a crucial difference to be noted between a global leader such as Starmer taking his own stance on key issues — which I believe he should do sooner rather than later — and going directly against everything Trump stands for and proposes policy-wise. Economic agreements are to be made in one way or another — nations of conflicting political leanings have

AFTER an upset (or rather upsetting) victory for Donald Trump, we have seen some of the worst quality Cabinet picks in modern American history — somehow people are shocked by this. Donald Trump spent the entirety of his last presidency playing golf and campaigning, he purposefully missed National Security Council meetings and other duties of the presidency because he found them “boring.” It therefore should come no surprise to anyone that Donald Trump is more concerned about loyalty than their actual ability to serve in the job.

By far the worst pick is Matt Gaetz, who looks uncannily like

done it in the past. More socially, however, Labour evidently has more to hold Trump accountable for, especially on issues such as immigration or women’s (reproductive) rights. I believe it is Labour’s job to hold Trump accountable for his often-extremist views, given their political background as well as their manifesto promises, on the basis of which they were elected.

Furthermore, I believe that countries and leaders taking an individual stance — though very bold, considering America’s economic power — would be an ex cellent opportunity for other leaders to pressure Trump to comply and cooperate with more liberal governments. How realistic this expectation is — I’m not sure. But it’s good to have hope — especially in the current political climate, where one of the most powerful nations is taking a notable step backwards regarding social issues.

FOLLOWING Trump’s electoral victory in the US, it is in Britain’s interest for Starmer’s government to attempt cordial relations with the President. With a Republican Congress and White House, Trump will have no problem in implementing his policies, no matter how absurd they are.

With a Republican Congress and White House, Trump will have no problem in implementing his policies, no matter how absurd they are

to Ukraine. With no military force in the EU, the UK will have to step up to make defence a high priority. Yet again, the question remains: with what money?

One of the most powerful nations is taking a notable step backwards regarding social issues

For now, however, it appears that the most notable thing the two parties share is the colour red to represent them. Perhaps the party leaders should keep this notion for their policies and political leanings, too — keep them cooperative where necessary, but otherwise separate.

Magdalena Kanecka, Online International Editor

Economically, the President-Elect has repeatedly announced his intention to be protectionist, putting 10 to 20 per cent tariffs on all goods coming to the States. While 80 per cent of the UK’s economy is based in services rather than goods, this will still have a significant impact on growth, inflation and interest rates in the UK.

The recent budget suggests that Britain cannot afford its economy to worsen. Trump’s position on NATO should be another major concern for the government. Based on his threats to withdraw American support if European countries continue to not meet targets of military spending, it really won’t be a surprise if the President-Elect reduces military and financial assistance

Time to Make America Sane Again

Tom Richardson, Comment Editor, examines Trump’s new cabinet picks

Frankenstein’s monster. He has been under investigation by the House Ethics Committee due to reports of child sex trafficking and statutory rape. He was also the only congressman to vote against a bill to combat Human Trafficking, which probably doesn’t help him here. According to numerous congressmen, he was reportedly showing videos to other members of the House. No wonder when Senate Re-

When Senate Republicans found out about the nomination they thought it was an actual joke

publicans found out about the nomination they thought it was an actual joke.

Not far behind Gaetz is Tulsi Gabbard, someone who is generally regarded as a Foreign asset — but no one can decide which country she’s an asset to the most. Nikki Haley, who ran against Trump in the Republican Primary has labelled her recently as a “Russian, Iranian, Syrian, Chinese sympathiser.” The idea of somebody with her views on the foreign stage as the President’s top Intelligence sympathiser should be of great concern us all.

Another great pick is Robert F. Kennedy Jr, whose anti-vaccine views have made him, in the eyes of Trump, a great asset to the Depart-

ment of Health and Human services.

Though with his views on fast food being “poison,” I’m not entirely sure he will be in that position for long, considering Trump’s daily intake of it.

With his views on fast food being “poison,” I’m not entirely sure he will be in that position for long, considering Trump’s daily intake of it

America has great influence, and it should concern us all that the “leaders of the free world” will be ran by people such as RFK, who consistently op-

The UK’s vulnerable financial situation leaves no choice but for Labour to cosy up to Trump in hopes of fixing the special relationship. Trump’s legal compliance to the FEC against Labour for “illegal foreign interference” after the revelation that 100 current and former party members campaigned for Kamala Harris, suggests a need for the tensions between both governments to be improved. Foreign Secretary David Lammy’s past attacks on Trump, calling him a “Nazi sympathiser,” certainly does not help either. However, history tells us that Trump does not hold grudges against those who later cosy up to him — JD Vance and Elon Musk were both critics of Trump. There’s still hope for Labour to repair the foreign relations disaster before Britons suffer the consequences.

The Prime Minister recently dodged Kemi Badenoch’s question when asked if Trump would be invited to address Parliament during a state visit. Meanwhile, Trump and Nigel Farage have not kept their friendship hidden. There’s no denying that there has been a surge of right-wing populism in democracies of the last decade, and Britain might just follow the trend if Starmer isn’t careful.

The smartest thing for Labour to do right now is to be diplomatic, take advantage of Brexit to establish deals and welcome Trump with open arms — or at least appear to. After all, if there’s one lesson which should be learned from Kamala Harris’s loss, it’s that you risk losing your core base if you stray too far from your party’s values.

poses international health efforts, and once rallied in opposition to measles vaccines in Samoa which led to the death of 70 children. Along with Tulsi Gabbard, who has supported Russian propaganda and has been hailed as a “comrade” by Russian state media.

However, despite having a Republican majority, there are great concerns that many of these picks won’t actually be confirmed by the Senate. But that may be the point. Many people now believe that he is testing the loyalty of the Senate, to see how insane he can go before they start to object. But we can only hope.

Michelle Chung, Online Features Editor

Image: Gage Skidmore, Wikimedia Commons

Image: Number 10, Wikimedia Commons

Image: thehutch, Flickr

Satire

Musk appointed University efficiency czar

THE newest executive staff appointment from Vice Chancellor Lisa Roberts has caused quite the stir for students across campus, for good and for bad, as billionaire Elon Musk has been announced as the latest member of the Executive Council. This short-term engagement before Musk takes office in Donald Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) is meant to serve as valuable experience in dealing with overzealous colleagues and immature underlings coming straight out of their father’s trust funds. However, while Musk’s remit was supposed to deal with reducing costs as the university sector continues to come under financial pressure, it seems he has instead spent most of his time renaming the University’s institutions or even reverting them back to their earlier state. Sources tell Exeposé that this is due to Musk’s backwards and conservative outlook, as clearly seen by his use of ‘Doge’ as a culturally relevant reference.

For example, the Forum has been renamed to “The Senate”, perhaps indulging in the FOMO and feelings of rejection many Exeter students have from the UK’s older and more illustrious academic institutions. However, Musk’s other actions have gone slightly further than just the superficial. East Park is currently being abolished to return the site to a state of nature, after enough generations of freshers have soiled it. Perhaps more controversially, Musk has been trying to source a genuine, unexploded WW2 bomb to be placed and exploded in Birks Grange (again). Musk hopes that these measures, and more, will reduce the largest source of waste at the University of Exeter: its students.

Charlie Gershinson, Deputy Editor

SATIRE EDITOR: Audrey Alvey

Could Trump winning the election be the end of satire?

HILE most writers nowa-

Wdays are worried about AI stealing their jobs, satire editors all around the world are competing with a threat which is far more serious and, for once in their lives, effective: politicians. And no politician is a greater satirist than the businessman himself: Donald Trump. He’s so good that he doesn’t even need to write his skits down for broadsheet newspapers like the UK’s Prime Minister before this one before that one before that one. He doesn’t even have to lift a finger. You see, when he’s out and about, the satire simply writes itself. I considered many titles for this article: Crime & Prejudice: Americans prefer criminals over black women; 51 per cent of Americans believe a criminal will stop crime; Russia wins US election — the list goes on. There was no need for the usual exaggeration or forced irony that satire demands. What was I going to do? There was only one solution: give up on trying to be funny and become a very serious journalist instead. So, although this is my first edition as Exeposé’s Print Satire Editor, I’m afraid it’ll

be my last. As the elections of 2020 and 2024 proved, only a man can ever beat Trump at his own game because there’s nothing the public hate more than a woman — not even a [REDACTED].

My first task as Exeposé’s new Print Very Serious Journalist was to interview some very real Americans on their very real opinions surrounding the sadly real election. For the sake of anonymity, all names have been substituted with the Founding Fathers (who are all rolling in their graves).

My first job as Exeposé ’s new Print Very Serious Journalist

“Obama won two elections so

you can’t say that Kamala lost because she’s a black woman,” Ben Franklin told me while we flew kites together.

“Trump beat Hillary too, and she was white. Nothing to do with race.”

Exeposé reached out to Kimberley Crenshaw, the coiner of intersectionality, but she was too stunned to speak.

James Madison refused to have a verbal interview but wrote us a ten-page essay on how glad he was that Trump was going to “take revenge on the British for the Boston Tea Party” by making sure to co-host all future tea parties, picnics and such with Russia instead of us.

As these interviews went on, I found that the issue that came up most often was Law & Order: SVU; I spoke to a surprising number of people who had done write-ins for

A lesser but still prevalent matter for voters was law and order. Luckily for Americans, both of their primary candidates had legal experience.

“I feel very/somewhat confident that Trump will effectively handle crime and the justice system,” said John Jay, like the other 50.99999 per cent of voters surveyed by Pew Research Centre. “I voted for a president with hands-on, real-life experiences of crime. Kamala being a highly qualified, highly successful lawyer doesn’t mean she understands what it’s like. You know what does? Committing crimes and going on trial.” Rapper and anti-immigrant immigrant Alexander Hamilton said he originally didn’t plan on voting, but “if he had to choose / if he had to choose / Trump has beliefs / Harris has none.” When pressed on exactly what those beliefs (or lack thereof) were, Hamilton handed me a dusty old book, mumbled something about “building a wall,” then walked away. This book was titled “TITLE: Agenda 47: My Manifesto by Donald Trump.” The contents? A step-by-step guide on how to open the door of a bin lorry.

From toasting buns to raising funds, working class hero

Kemi Badenoch revolutionises the Conservative Party

Rosie Peters-McDonald Deputy Editor

KEMI Badenoch has announced that, under her rule, the Conservative Party will have the opposite approach to Labour on the economy. To find out what she meant by this, I looked into Labour’s recent Budget: I found plans to encourage tax incidence on working people by upping businesses’ national insurance contributions, a rise in the bus fare cap, and a proposal to make higher education more elitist by increasing the cost of it. Well, I think it’s pretty clear what Badenoch meant when she said “the opposite” of Labour’s economy. She’s obviously reforming the Conservative Party into a socialist organisation while Labour (austerity edition) cosplay the Tories for the next four years.

It’s no surprise that she’s turning the tides, really, given her “very tough” and “middle-class” background. Inspired by her story, I reached out with some questions. Unfortunately, she’s currently taking a stand against mobile phones. She said, “if the poorest can’t afford them, why should I have one?” — so she faxed me her responses over from the shared parliamentary fax machine. She was going to type them up and send them to us in the post, but unfortunately Carla Denyer, one half of the Green Party’s leader, had to scrap the communal printer after catching Keir Starmer printing out his Arsenal hospitality tickets.

Here’s a preview of the interview ahead of its release in our next print edition:

Exeposé: What was it like “becoming work-

ing-class” after a middle-class upbringing?

Badenoch: It was exhilarating, really, working for a business which puts so much heart [disease] into its products. I mean, flipping burgers isn’t exactly glamorous, but I felt so in touch with the people. I remember my first day of work at McDonald’s. My friend Jezza (your former Labour leader, my future Deputy) gave me a pep talk. “It could be worse,” he said. “You could be working in Gourmet Burger Kitchen. At least in McDonald’s only commoners will see you!” I’ll never forget that day.

Exeposé: It must have been a tough transition. Did you learn anything from it?

Badenoch: Well, I didn’t have much time to learn anything, unfortunately, because the small business I was working for (they called it “Maccies,” isn’t that sweet?) was forced to close after contributing excessively to statutory maternity pay. Half of my co-workers were pregnant, all by the same guy… Donald? No, Ronald, I think it was? Anyway, it was a travesty, and I left as soon as I could.

[End of preview]

We were devastated to hear such a difficult story told by a woman who’s had to climb the class ladder as often as Nigel Farage has had to visit Clacton (three times, approximately). Thankfully, she’s channelling her pain into change (the new Conservative Party slogan — sound familiar?) and has already decided on much of their manifesto for the next election. She’s proposed a change to the party’s name, for starters: The Socialist Baddie-nochs.

“I know I’ve made it clear that there ain’t no bad in Badenoch,” she told officials earlier this week, “but I’m willing to let it slide just this once for the sake of a decent party name.”

When asked whether the new name had something to do with an ideological shift for the Tories, she stated, “Someone must speak up for the workers. As Karl Marx once said: let the ruling classes tremble at a Communistic revolution. The proletarians have nothing to lose but their chains.”

She then added, “And to that I say, as Jarvis Cocker once did: I’ll… I’ll see what I can do.”

fictional Detective Olivia Benson.

Audrey Alvey Satire Editor

Image: DonkeyHotey, Flickr

Image: CinemaAustralia

Image: Cleverson da Silva Oliveira Wikimedia Commons

Image: FMT

Image: Amy Rushton

Image: Image: Pietro Naj-Olear, Flickr

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Wlifestyle

Katie Roberts, Lifestyle Editor, shares her tips for hosting an unforgettable games night

ITH darker evenings and chilly November weather, the desire (and budget) for nights out seems to be waning. With deadline season looming and the Christmas break still feeling just out of reach, a laid-back night-in might be just what you need.

Hosting a games night at your flat or house can be a cosy and fun alternative to hitting the pub or club. It’s a flexible option, too — whether you want a relaxed, sober evening with hot drinks and snacks or an excuse to drink and be silly, all from the comfort of your own home.

A COSY AND FUN ALTERNATIVE TO HITTNG THE PUB OR CLUB

Hosting doesn’t need to be complicated or expensive. Here are some tips to keep it simple and stress-free: Keep it Small: You don’t have to invite a huge group. A few close friends or even coursemates are perfect, and games can be a great icebreaker! Make it Collaborative: Ask everyone to bring something to contribute — snacks, drinks,

a board game, or a speaker. Alternatively, agree on a small budget and split the cost evenly.

Focus on the Basics: All you really need is enough seating, a table and a good playlist. Here are some ideas for themed games nights:

1. Pub Quiz Night: Recreate the pub quiz vibe with bar snacks (crisps, nuts, and drinks). Divide the quiz into rounds like music, general knowledge, sports, pop culture, and current affairs. Assign each guest a category to create questions for — it’s a fun way for everyone to participate. Alternatively, use the Random Trivia Generator, a free online tool that provides questions across various categories and reveals the answers on clickable flashcards.

2. Bring-a-Board Night: Ask your friends to bring any board games they have or check out affordable options at charity shops. Some university halls even have board game libraries you can borrow from (e.g., Ross House or East Park receptions). Classic games like Monopoly, Cluedo, Scrabble, or Trivial Pursuit are always a hit, but you might discover quirky new games. Turn it into a tournament by keeping score, and if every-

one enjoys it, spread the competition over several weeks with different games each time.

3. Bake-Off Night: Channel your inner baker with a kitchen-based challenge! Set up a theme, such as pizza-making, cupcakes, cookies, or gingerbread house building. For a twist, choose a recipe that’s new to everyone and add a time limit for a Great British Bake-Off vibe. A group trip to the shop for ingredients could even be part of the evening’s activities. Just make sure to split the cost, which should stay budget-friendly when shared.

4. Video Game Night: If you or your housemates have a gaming console, this is another fantastic option. Multiplayer games like MarioKart, Wii Sports, or Just Dance are perfect for groups. Keep score and add a competitive edge with fun prizes or forfeits for the winners and losers. Whatever theme you choose, the goal is to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere for everyone to unwind and enjoy themselves. With a little planning and creativity, your games night could become the highlight of the week!

Wintery recipe: seasonal soup Spicing up your games night

Kayleigh Swart, Arts & Lit Editor, offers us dinner inspiration with a warming winter recipe

AS winter approaches, one of my favourite things to do is to cook and bake. I love eating seasonal foods and meals that make me feel warm and cosy. However, I know it can be hard to cook a yummy meal after a long day at uni. Sometimes I get so lazy, I even go back to instant ramen. But nothing beats the pleasure of sitting down with some home cooked food and enjoying it. So, I’ve decided to share my recipe for a warm, hearty soup, that doesn’t take that much effort to make (just a bit of waiting around!).

Ingredients

Stock

• Potatoes

• Lentils or beans

Any vegetables you fancy

• Onion

• Tinned tomatoes Red wine

Instructions

The great thing about this recipe is that is it pretty adaptable to what you have available and what you like to eat. For example, you could replace the beans for meat, or you could choose what flavour of stock you like best.

Step 1: So, to get started, I like to cut up all my vegetables to get it out of the way. I also then peel my potatoes and cut them up into mouthful sized bites.

Step 2: Once everything is prepped, everything else is really simple! Throw your potatoes into a pot with your stock, tinned tomatoes, and optionally a bit of red wine.

Step 3: Put it over the heat and let it simmer.

Step 4: Depending on what vegetables you have chosen, you might prefer to fry them before you add them to the soup. If this is the case, chuck them into a pan and fry until cooked. You can then add them to your soup when they are done. However, if you just want to boil your veggies, feel free to add them in with your potatoes.

Step 5: This is the long part where you just have to wait around for a bit. Depending on how big you cut your potatoes, this is how long this will take. For me, I like to simmer the soup down for about twenty minutes to half an hour, and during this time you can season the soup to your taste.

Step 6: When the potatoes are fully cooked, I like to add in my lentils or beans, which are a great source of protein and only take a few minutes to fully cook.

Once they’re done, your soup is ready! I also like to serve it with a few slices of buttered bread on the side. I think this is a great recipe for staying warm and filling yourself up, and nothing feels more wintery than a homemade soup.

Image: Leeloo The First, Pexels

Has Christmas come too early?

Agata Koralewska, Deputy Editor, discusses when to start Christmas preparations

FOR some people, as soon as Halloweeen ends, Christmas celebrations start. Whether its humming merry tunes while showering or putting up festive decorations, many will prepare for it early on in the year.

Some might ask: Is it too early? Christmas — one of the most commercialised holidays in the year, can now be seen as just one more occasion to spend money without any further reflection, and fuel the capitalist, overconsumption machine.

The earlier it starts the better, as more people will get an opportunity to spend their life savings on not only presents, but also unnec -

essary accessories and objects that will be on display only once a year.

One might think that yes, buying a Christmas tree in November is a bit extreme, but, if you think about it for a second, time passes so quickly that December will come knocking on your door in no time. Because of that, many would say that waiting is pointless and one can start getting ready any time they want. Life is too short to worry about anyone else’s opinion and waste Christmas spirit on unnecessary overthinking.

Especially at university, students might choose to be festive before the term ends, as they have to come back to their homes and most likely celebrate

Tidy

Twith their families rather than with their flatmates or course friends. They put decorations up early to get plenty of time to enjoy them and go out to Christmas markets with their friends, as their time in Exeter is limited. International societies would host ‘traditional Christmas dinners’ to share traditional food from their countries, and demonstrate how different Christmas is around the world.

The advent calendar, even though it technically starts in December, has no limits. If you feel like blasting Mariah Carey in November, go for it. The wait for Christmas doesn’t have to be boring and can look different, depending on one’s family traditions.

your mind!

Lucy Parsons gives advice on journaling as a way of taking care of yourself

HE first thing that I encourage anyone to do when they’re feeling low is to write it down. It’s something that I began doing years ago when I experienced a period of bad anxiety and feeling that I lacked a sense of purpose. Journaling has enabled me to gain clarity on some of my root causes, increased my confidence, and bettered my ability to work through periods of lower motivation. Journaling is an ideal habit for anyone, regardless of what you’re trying to get out of it. Essentially, you are acknowledging and organising your thoughts into something more physical and distinct. Even just this action of translation can be therapeutic, for it declutters your mind in a way similiar to tidying your room. It can be especially beneficial when try-

ing to make a difficult decision, working out your long and short-term goals, or understanding how something might have affected you.

IT DECLUTTERS YOUR MIND IN A WAY SIMILAR TO TIDYING YOUR ROOM

Journaling can provide structure and routine if you’re consistent with it, and you can use it to keep a track of your progression towards things you’d like to get done. It might put things into perspective to have a couple of long-term goals, though I’d argue that the shorter term will be the more rewarding — even so short as a daily to-do list. The action of

crossing these off and writing more, can generate a rhythm of motivation which might be especially useful during the winter months.

For many, the concept of journaling is daunting. Writing down how you feel might seem awkward or forced, and you might not know where to start. It’s important to find a format that works best for you, which could be anything from the Notes app in your phone to a physical notebook and pen. Alternatively, some bookshops have great prompted journals that you can work through. Ease into the level of personal that feels comfortable for you and try to consistently set aside some time for it.

Escape to Dartmoor

AS deadline season approaches, it is well known that one of the best ways to reduce stress and improve your concentration is to do regular exercise. But if you are bored of the gym and your running route, I would encourage you to head out to Dartmoor for a hike. We are so lucky to have it on our doorstep, and the three years here will go by so quickly that you will regret not making more of an effort to explore outside Exeter. It may be your only chance!

WE ARE SO LUCKY TO HAVE IT ON OUR DOORSTEP... IT MAY BE YOUR ONLY CHANCE!

Dartmoor has walks for all kinds of abilities, and there are a multitude of options on places to go. These are just my favourites, but I recommend you do some research and find something that appeals to you. Visitdartmoor.co.uk is a great place to start.

There are many ways to get to Dartmoor. By car is probably the easiest, but if you are not fortunate enough to own or have ac cess to one, then you can still take the train or bus. The train to Okehampton is direct and only about 40 minutes from St Davids. Once you arrive, there are several routes in the area you can follow. The best is probably the Dartmoor ponies walk (photo attached!)

If you want to challenge yourself, then you can climb High Willhays Tor, the highest point in Dartmoor, which stands at 621 metres above sea level, and nearby Yes Tor, the second highest point, at 619 metres. They are in the Okehampton area, but it is a little bit of a walk before you get to the peaks! You can then round the walk off by heading into Okehampton itself, a lovely little village with coffee and charity shops, as well as pubs,

to keep you entertained as you wait for the train. If you are lucky enough to have a car, then your options grow significantly. Haytor Quarry and Hound Tor are some of the most wellknown locations and are well worth a visit. They are both easily accessible, with parking close by. I prefer large, barren open heathlike country to forests, but if you are a fan of trees and closed spaces, then Witman’s Wood is perfect. It is essentially an ancient rainforest!

HAYTOR QUARRY AND HOUND TOR ARE SOME OF THE MOST WELL-KNOWN LOCATIONS

Finally, you can join one of Exeter’s expedition or walking societies, which regularly hold weekend walks. Whichever way you decide to visit, please remember to respect the land and follow the Countryside Code to ensure the protection of the area.

Image: Henry Anderson

Henry Anderson, International Editor, shares the best walking routes in Dartmoor

Image: Pixabay, Pexels

Image: Pikpik

arts + lit

The Ernest Struggle

In honour of Movember, Sam Smith explores men’s mental health in Hemingway’s short stories

“

AMAN is not made for defeat,” once wrote Hemingway; “A man can be destroyed but he cannot be defeated.” Such terse, confident language taken from his most famous of novels, is still as inspiring today as it was when it first won the Pulitzer Prize in 1953.

“The writer’s job is to tell the truth… all you have to do is write one true sentence, and then go on from there.” Hemingway wrote truth about an old man and the sea to the snows on Kilimanjaro; truth was prevalent through all of his work. Hemingway was a master of English prose; short, snappy, often blunt with his language, but it had the beauty of hiding profound meaning just below the surface.

Hemingway’s writing is an insight into his own life and identity. Drawing from his past, his own thoughts and struggles, it is fascinating to glance into the world of the early to mid-20th century through his stories. Hemingway led a life that feels very distant from the one most men lead today. Experiencing the wars, poverty, and social pressures of his time, we can only look back, shudder, and imagine what that was once like. But Hemingway did live through it. He survived it and then wrote prolifically about it. He wrote about war, the isolation, the barbarity and the inexplicable dilemma of experiencing something so brutal and then being unable to talk about it. He wrote about

Slove, how we express and supress the fantastic elation of such emotion and of how the cruel mundanity of time slowly suffocates all hope of it. He wrote about depression — the part I find most insightful — the looming, fiendish enemy that we face, and of how we opt to destroy ourselves rather than admit the defeat he said himself we are “not made for.”

Hemingway’s writing has strong undertones of his views of masculinity, but he was not afraid of critiquing them or the stereotypes that existed in his society. Through his subtle prose we can see the themes of mental health and suicide running rife through them. Highlighting how problematic society’s attitudes were towards such things and how difficult it was for men in those days. He himself was an embodiment of masculinity at the time, often seen fortuitously championing a rifle over his latest beast killed on the African savannah. Hemingway’s close brushes with death in back-to-back plane crashes, his ability to recover from serious injury, his phenomenal writing, his irresistible nature to women, (not to mention his killer

moustache!) adds to a life whose saga was as stereotypically masculine as they come. But it wasn’t without Ernest’s struggles — three failed marriages, years of depression, an alcohol addiction, paranoia and ultimately suicide at age 61, it leaves a lot of questions open about what being a man means and how much one should really strive for such a stereotype. While we attempt to grow our moustaches like Hemingway and begin to look more and more like old war generals rather than students, let’s not forget the roots at the heart of Movember. As we read his fantastic tales, they tell us the harrowing reality of the pressures and expectations put on men and how difficult it can be to deal with them. Ernest Heminway was a fighter, and he went down fighting one of man’s worst enemies. As a result, I’m willing to wager that Ernest knew more about masculinity and its battle against depression than most. So this month, among the amazing charity work and questionable moustache attempts, I think it is also important to read about the trials and tribulations of men and learn about the Ernest Struggle the Heming-way.

In conversation with Sam Parker

Judy Dodd, Arts and Lit Editor, interviews Sam Parker about theatre opportunities in the Southwest

AM Parker is a playwright from Torbay who is dedicated to improving the southwest theatre scene. He’s a freelancer by trade and is currently working closely with the Northcott Theatre on a project called Elevate, which sets out to make careers in the theatre and art scene more approachable for southwest artists. I sat down with him at the Barnfield Theatre café for what turned out to be a very interesting conversation about the opportunities for artists in Devon and Cornwall.

Sam got into playwriting at university. He completed a BA in theatre, but it was his module on playwriting that made him discover his writing talent. He went on to complete a Creative Writing Master’s degree and was recently admitted into the competitive ‘BBC Writersroom.’

As a freelance playwright who loves the southwest, he works closely with local theatres and amateur actors to create community plays. He explained how he has two different writing processes: “either I’m sat alone in a room to write, or I’m the writer in a room with a director and a community of people. In the second scenario, the story is already in the room and it’s my job to put it on a stage.”

I was interested in his work with amateur acting groups as it creates a dilemma for the emerging playwright: when working with community theatres, are you satisfied as a writer if the quality of the play isn’t as high as you had hoped as long as the people involved are enjoying themselves? Output over

participation or participation over output?

He explained that “striking a balance” is the main thing. “The thing to do is make sure that the overall product is good so that the community can feel proud about what they’ve created. Prioritising output over process tends not to create better outcomes as shows often don’t have enough time to come together as you had imagined anyway.”

Earlier this year, Sam started working with the Northcott Theatre on a series of projects called Elevate. The initiative helps emerging southwest artists to develop their talent and passion, “whether they’re at the start of their journey, at a dead end in their creative career or simply lacking in opportunities,” says Sam. “The ideal vision is for artists to engage with a work and grab hold of the next throng of the ladder in their creative careers.”

As an artist development programme, Elevate is concerned about the lack of

creative opportunities in the southwest. “There is no point having wonderful theatre venues and committing to host more southwest-based actors, writers and directors if we don’t also offer the building blocks to those careers in theatre,” Sam explains. He hopes that the workshops and opportunities Elevate offers will serve as a pipeline to great local work.

“We face particular challenges here,” he goes on. “The southwest is a geographically expansive area, which means that transport infrastructure is often a concrete challenge for theatre.” Moreover, there is a contradictory perception of the southwest: “There are pockets of extreme affluence, but there are at the same time many very poor, underfunded and under-educated areas which lack basic opportunities.” Elevate wants to help make sure that the arts become more accessible. “Creative careers shouldn’t only be something for people with pre-established connections and networking opportunities.”

But England faces an altogether larger problem, Sam explains to me: “the theatre business faces extreme underfunding alongside an expectation for companies to churn out shows at record speed, which makes it difficult for creatives to keep up.” According to Sam, the solution is that organisations should be doing the legwork for creatives when they can: “there needs to be more communication between different venues so that they join up rather than act like silos. Sam recently hosted the Elevate Festival for the first time, which served as a focal point for celebrating southwest work. They showcased Elevate Shorts, in which four local writers and directors got paired up to create four short plays for which they held open castings. The festival was both an audience development tool to familiarise audiences with new creators and an artist development tool for emerging creatives to put on their own shows. Another Elevate initiative is Young Creatives. This acting group focuses on giving young people access to creative opportunities. “Acting gives them confidence, the ability to articulate themselves and it makes them comfortable with feeling uncomfortable,” he explains. “Acting is also a common and brilliant gateway into the arts to start getting involved,” as it turned out to be for himself. The feedback on Elevate so far has been immensely positive. “It’s very British to be embarrassed about things you do well, but people have really loved what we do so far,” he says. “It feels like the building is buzzing again.”

Image: Judy Dodd

Image: Sam Parker

THIS ARTICLE CONTAINS CONTENT RELATING TO SUICIDE WHICH SOME READERS MAY FIND DISTRESSING

Art movement spotlight: The Rococo period

Kizzy Rollings gives us the rundown on a often-forgotten art movement

MARKED by excessive flamboyance and frivolity, Rococo emerged in France in the 1720s and remained the predominant style until it fell out of fashion in the 1770s. Its characteristic pursuit of pure aestheticism and hedonism cultivated a lifestyle of luxury and excess, which greatly contrasted with the ideology of the French people.

Upon Louis XIV’s death in 1715, France entered the Regency period. With the absolute power of the monarch gone, the centre of society moved from the French court to the lavish Parisian homes of the aristocracy, who could now enjoy a newfound level of political power and influence, alongside enormous wealth. Whereas the previous Baroque period had seen the commissioning of grandiose works of art that would reinforce the ‘divine right of kings’, the Rococo emphasised opulence to impress

and entertain: it was a style without rules. It takes its name from ‘rocaille’, meaning rock or broken shell, and the style is made distinct by soft pastel colours, patterns based on natural motifs, and curved asymmetric ornamentation. Whilst Rococo is found primarily in silver, ceramics, and furniture (since it was developed by designers and craftspeople), the period also popularised a new genre of painting, the fête galante. Contrary to the historical and religious subjects of Baroque paintings, this genre saw the insertion of nobility in mythological scenes, thus entertaining a certain theatricality and fantasy.

Jean-Honoré Fragonard’s The Swing depicts a beautiful woman being pushed on a swing by her spouse in an overgrown

garden, yet simultaneously spreading her legs so that the young man hiding in the brush can catch a glimpse up her skirt. It denotes infidelity, indulgence and romanticism and reflects the shifting ideologies in France, away from the Church. Louis XV’s mistress, Madame de Pompadour, was a great patron of the Rococo movement and commissioned many artworks to adorn the Palace of Versailles. Although christened ‘the godmother and queen of Rococo’ by the Goncourt Brothers in 1860, perhaps the more recognisable figure of Rococo is Marie Antoinette: synonymous with the phrase ‘let them eat cake’, she is intertwined with the moral decadence of the period (captured deliciously in Sofia Coppola’s candycoloured 2006 biopic Marie Antoinette ). Wife

of Louis XVI, she forged her own identity at Versailles through fashion and reinvented the attire of the French court, popularising huge pannier skirts, frills, pastel-toned silks, decorative feathers and floral embroidery, as well as tall wigs embellished with diamonds, flowers and fake birds.

ITS LEGACY CONTINUES TO IMPACT ART FORMS TODAY WITH THE STYLES INHERENT QUEERNESS

Criticism of the superficiality and degeneracy of the art by prominent artists and philosophers, such as Voltaire, and increasing anger toward the aristocracy by the poverty-stricken French public, meant that the style gradually faded out. However, its legacy continues to impact art forms today, with the style’s inherent queerness being explored in contemporary settings.

Fiction from around the world

Arts and Lit writers share their favourite reads from across the globe

She and Her Cat, Shinkai and Nagakawa

AS a Spaniard, I feel I have to recommend a Spanish book, and so urge you to read El Italiano by Arturo Pérez-Reverte. It tells the story of a group of Italian military divers from the Decima Flottiglia MAS hiding in the Spanish town of Algeciras, across the bay from the port of Gibraltar. Based on a true story, during WW2 these divers would swim across the bay to mine and destroy British ships. Merging his own experience of investigating the events, Reverte crafts a tale of love, espionage and bravery in an area of the conflict totally overlooked by history.

Henry Anderson, International Editor

LONG wrinkly fingers twisted the timber handle and he shuffled over the threshold. The room smelt of paint and dust. The old man hesitated, then lifted his feet gingerly down the two half-steps at the entrance. He left the door open.

“This place needs air,” he said, and then sneezed. Walking slowly, with both arms outstretched, he moved into the centre of the room. Great, arched oval windows blared a low autumnal sun against his cheek. He inclined his jaw and let the light dapple across his sunken jowls. Dust mites fell like ghostly rain. The room was long and L-shaped, filled

SHE and Her Cat , written by Makoto Shinkai and Naruki Nagakawa, and translated by Ginny Tapley Takemori from Japanese, features four heartwarming stories about women and their cats. The short book does a wonderful job at portraying the comfort of companionship, through cleverly switching between the perspectives of cats and women in turns. The plot is nothing chaotic, but instead focuses on the smaller details in life, creating a gentle book with only happy endings. As a cat owner, I particularly found comfort reading this collection, but for anyone looking for a lovely little book to spend a weekend reading, this calming and easy read is the one.

Anna

Spencer, Lifestyle Editor

LOS Cachorros is a Peruvian novella written by Mario Vargas Llosa in 1967 and follows the story of a young man named Cuéllar who, after a freak accident that leaves him castrated, struggles to fit in with other young people after losing what seemingly defined his masculinity. Cuéllar suffers immensely with poor mental health as he grows up and finds it difficult to maintain friendships and relationships as the idea that he is ‘different’ haunts him. It’s a heartbreaking tale that deals with the toxicity of masculinity, a difficult comingof-age and a realistic, hard-hitting ending that leaves no room for an HEA. Many lessons can be learnt from this — it provokes discourse around the way we treat others and our views on what defines masculinity.

Gracie Moore, Editor-in-Chief

PThe Bee Sting, Paul Murray

AUL Murray’s The Bee Sting takes place in a rural town in Ireland, presenting us with a shared narrative between a family of four. Embellished with disagreements, regrets, and fraught relationships, the novel deconstructs the nuclear family, making one event — a bee sting on the mother’s wedding day — a focal point around which the story orbits. It’s full of questions of identity and location, prompting consideration of what it means to climb — and eventually even descend — a small-town social ladder. I also found its treatment of sexuality and the climate emergency particularly compelling: Murray makes use of less-central characters to put forth arguments and ideas which disturb the norm. The novel’s use of flashbacks and its experimental style make it a memorable and unique read.

Rosie

Peters-McDonald, Deputy Editor

Creative writing: Past Lives

Nathan Steward shares a piece of flash fiction

with blank and splattered canvasses. A dozen easels of various sizes and woodgrain lurched haphazardly across the floor. The old man moved forward again and clattered one of the easels over.

“Damn it,” he cursed and blinked rapidly.

He moved even slower this time — like a heavy, destinate raindrop finding its path down the window. He came to the largest easel in the room, slanted as to catch the light. It was an Avant Garde portrait of an old woman, cubist and brilliant and unfinished.

He blinked again and stretched out his hand to touch the canvas. With a creaky boom, the leg of the easel buckled and the painting heaved

forward, knocking the old man backwards. He yelped and stuck out his hands to catch his fall. One hand ruptured the canvas, splitting the seams into a gaping, colourful wound. The other palmed and gripped a small side-table covered with brushes, tipping this over too.

The old man caught his breath amidst the carnage and slowly inched his fingers out of the painting. He held his stained hands before his eyes and blinked.

Spreading his arms out, he collected the brushes, tracing their small wooden spines and lining them into a regiment beside him.

“Clifford?”

An old woman had heard the crash. She poked her head into the room and smiled softly at the large, ripped canvas where her own visage gazed back — terse and stately. The old man smiled too, in recognition of her voice. His fingers idly mixed the tears with the dry cake of the painted palette, turning them bright once more.

“This place needs air.”

His hands fell upon an old wooden palette, gaudy and hued from the last time it was used. Quick fingers traced the spherical indents, feeling the crust of the colours. Tears negotiated the canyons of his wrinkled eyes and dropped onto the wood. The old man’s small body heaved silently.

Image: RawPixel

El Italiano, Artuto Pérez-Reverte

Los Cachorros, Mario Vargas Llosa

MUSIC

JAG Music — music experienced like never before

Harry Morrison, Music Editor, interviews JAG Music and reports on their debut event

IN just six weeks, JAG Music has emerged as a creative force in the University of Exeter’s music scene. Headlined by members James Caulton, Alex Turner, and George Gero, these boys combine diverse musical styles with a passionate sense of community, offering an immersive experience beyond the conventional party. But how does a group so young create such a buzz? By focusing on three core pillars: inclusivity, safety and creativity, while staying true to their ethos where everyone and anyone is welcome.

Speaking to the group in an interview, it’s clear that they commit to foster a connection with the audience and offer an unforgettable experience. When asked to describe JAG in a single word, members offered terms that revealed the group’s heart: “community” and “unique” were there, but George’s answer perfectly summed up what I witnessed at their event: “opportunistic.” A JAG event is an opportunity that “allows people with different backgrounds at the University to come together into a community,” connecting passionate people through music and socialising. It’s the inclusion of a community that makes these events distinctive to anyone attending.

For someone unfamiliar with their music, JAG promises variety. Their sets don’t promote a single genre of music, but in turn seamlessly blend Afro house, techno, jazz house, drum and bass, and progressive house, delivering an eclectic yet cohesive soundscape. Their expectational ability to adapt extends to their audiences; JAG regularly incorporates song requests, creating a truly collaborative atmosphere. "If there are specific song requests from individuals, not only will we play that song, but we will teach them how to mix the songs on the decks, involving them in the experience," they explain. Witnessing this firsthand at their flagship event at the Underground in Exeter poses a captivating and exclusive occurrence for members of the audience. With no specific setlist when playing live, the group con-

tinuously takes pride in tailoring each event to the crowd's vibe, ensuring every night is exclusive.

Diving into how their story started as a group, it’s their passion for music in a university setting that brought them together.

group through his knowledge in production and staging, and Al Mustafa and Felix Harris promoting the group with their passion for the music industry. Each member contributes unique skills, forming a six-person, student-led powerhouse.

Beginning with James and George collaborating at an event, Alex soon joined the fold, transforming their partnership into an ambitious trio. In the background, a team began to develop, with Connor Dearlove directing the

How each member individually and collaboratively bounces off one another is special to see. For the members of JAG, the last six weeks have been transformative for them on a personal level. “Being part of this group has made me less

Istressed and much happier,” one member reflects. Each member showed a clear indication of how forming this group has meant a great deal to them, reminding me that focusing on the present is key for the trio, especially in their early days. “The present is opportunity,” one member commented, and “the present is the best opportunity you’re going to get,” another member added. Taking that leap and becoming a trio showed little to no challenge for the group, highlighting that the synergy during their first time playing together was a key moment in the story of JAG so far.

THE PRESENT IS THE BEST OPPORTUNITY YOU'RE GOING TO GET

JAG’s live performances are raw, organic, and collaborative, fostering an atmosphere of exclusivity and engagement that is at the core of your expectations when attending one of their events. How do they keep these events exclusive? Through an invite-only scheme, ensuring a welcoming and safe environment for all guests. Members were keen to share their signature 'three pillars guide' for every event: a carefully curated guest list, a commitment to safety and a themed approach that encourages creativity. These themes inspire attendees to dress up, adding a layer of excitement and immersion to each night. When attending their event, the ratio of people you know to people you have never met is perfectly balanced, allowing the audience to feel comfortable, yet still being able to socialise with new faces. It’s these elements of JAG that truly enhance their ethos of community, bringing people of all backgrounds together to share a safe space that they can enjoy. Members and I call this the ‘JAG experience.’ JAG events are more than parties — they’re experiences. Fornow,theirmessageisclear:liveinthemoment, embrace the music, and join the JAG community.

Artist limelight: The Last Dinner Party

Pollyanna Roberts, Screen Editor, puts the spotlight on one of her favourite bands

F you’re looking for a transportive, powerful and outrageously fun band to sink your teeth into, look no further than The Last Dinner Party. Made up of five incredible women, The Last Dinner Party have swirled up a swarm in pop music today. Their hit ‘Nothing Matters’ was released in 2023 and it skyrocketed them to fame. The use of instruments, especially the piano, is simply iconic. They are lyrical geniuses, singing songs about love, power, and femininity. My favourite song by this band is ‘Caesar on a TV Screen,' it is so empowering and just hits every. Single. Time. Every aspect of the song is different, leaving you listening with uncertainty as you don’t know how it will play out. They leave you on the edge of your seat. Not to mention the bass riff is absolutely chilling. Their debut album Prelude to Ecstasy dropped in February of this year. If you love a song with an enthralling riff listen to ‘Sinner’. Or, if it’s a smooth sliding voice, and a transportive bridge you’re after, listen to ‘My Lady of Mercy’.

The Last Dinner Party have a very timeless image, they don’t conform to stereotypes of femininity. They have a unique style which speaks to millions of listeners. The lead singer, Abigail, has such an impressive voice, her passion is palpable. She reminds me of a musical theatre singer; she embodies the songs she sings and throws her whole body into every performance. Her vocal range is simply unmatched, I think the only way I can describe her voice is grand.

This band offers a refreshing take on indie rock, that will have your toes tapping and your head bopping. They are just addictive and once you’ve started listening, you won’t be able to stop. I was lucky enough to see The Last Dinner Party live at Reading 2024, and their hold on the crowd was enchanting. They stole the stage and delivered an outstanding performance, and they are even better live. All I can say is: get listening, because 'Nothing Matters' apart from The Last Dinner Party.

Image: Harry Morrison

Image: Erin Mc via Wikimedia Commons

EDITORS: Harry Morrison and Brooke Taylor

MUSIC AWARDS

67th Grammy Awards nominations

Magdalena Kanecka,

Online International Editor, unpacks this year's Grammy nominations

NEXT year holds the 67th Grammy Awards. Every year, the nominations have fans around the world wishing for their favourite artist to be rewarded for their work from the past year. However, not all artists are as fortunate as to win multiple categories every year.

Some of the nominations this year come as no surprise — Charli XCX’s summer hit album BRAT and Billie Eilish’s Hit Me Hard and Soft under ‘Albums of the Year’, SZA under ‘Best R&B Song’, Beyoncé’s 'Cowboy Carter' under ‘Best Country Album’, or Chappell Roan under ‘Best New Artist.' These were to be expected for anyone who keeps up to date with music and pop culture.

However, critics have quickly voiced their disappointment over certain artists not having made the list despite having incredibly successful releases this year. Some of these being Dua Lipa, Megan Thee Stallion and Nicki Minaj. Others argue that certain artists such as Taylor Swift have been nominated for so many categories (with four nominations going to just one of Taylor’s albums alone, plus an additional nomination for her feature in Gracie Abrams’s song 'us.') that it takes away from other potential nominees.

I myself am happy with the nominations and I feel that the ‘Best New Artist’ category did all the rising stars particular justice. I think the toughest competitions for me, upon seeing the nominations, are the ‘Best Pop Duo/Group Performance’ and ‘Record of the Year’ categories. All of the nominations are incredible and I am looking forward to seeing who takes the awards home in the end. However, I may be biased as a long-time fan, but I would have really loved Beabadoobee’s This Is How Tomorrow Moves to have been nominated, especially considering the UK success the album had from the first week of its release. Over time, the Grammys have become an increasingly political event, with some arguing that minority groups are often purposefully left behind. This year especially, some have argued that K-pop groups have gotten a notable lack of exposure and reward for their success. With the boy group BTS having been nominated in past years, K-pop fans argue that the Grammys' inclusivity is regressing and that their nominations of BTS in the past years were a poor attempt at performative progressivity.

MTV EMA Awards

THE 2024 MTV European Music Awards (EMAs) were held on the 5th November 2024 in Manchester, hosted by Rita Ora for the third time.

The event celebrated global music talent with memorable performances, emotional tributes and exciting awards. Despite the excitement, some big names were notably absent due to ongoing tours, including Taylor Swift, Sabrina Carpenter, Chappell Roan and Billie Eilish.

The night featured high-energy performances from Shawn Mendes, Tyla and Raye, keeping the excitement alive throughout the ceremony. A special tribute was made to the late Liam Payne, with Rita Ora honouring the former One Direction member who passed away earlier in the year. Ora, who had worked closely with Payne, shared an emotional

Charlie

Espeech, saying, "he had the biggest heart and left such a mark on this world." Taylor Swift, the night’s biggest nominee with seven nominations, won two major awards: 'Best Artist' and 'Best Video' for 'Fortnite' (featuring Post Malone). Although she couldn’t attend due to a schedule conflict, Swift sent a video message thanking her fans, solidifying her place at the top of the music industry.

Sabrina Carpenter won 'Best Song' for 'Espresso.' Though absent due to her US 'Short n’ Sweet' tour, she sent her thanks in a video, celebrating the success of the track.

Ariana Grande, despite missing out on the major awards, won 'Best Pop,' which was a significant moment given the recent press surrounding her lack of Grammy nominations. Her win was a reminder of her undeniable influence on the pop world, even as she

is transitioning towards the film industry, taking on a lead role in Wicked which is out now. Other major nominees included U.S. artists Billie Eilish and Chappell Roan and British acts like Central Cee, Adele, Fred Again, and Coldplay. Eminem won 'Best Hip-Hop Act,' cementing his legendary status in the genre. Benson Boone took home the award for 'Best New Artist,' celebrating a major milestone in his career and highlighting the night's recognition of rising talent in the music world. Tyla also earnt her first ever EMA wins, for 'Best Afrobeats,' 'Best R&B' and 'Best African Act.' Overall, the 2024 MTV EMAs were a celebration of global music talent, filled with heartfelt tributes and exciting wins. Despite some notable absences, the night proved that music continues to unite, even across borders and time zones.

The impact of music on the presidential election

LECTIONEERING and campaigning in America has always reached beyond the political sphere and touched all forms of culture. Political candidates — especially those for the presidency — get across to the thousands of communities, small and large, throughout the US and try to earn their votes. Music has been a particular medium through which presidential candidates attempt to connect to the electorate; from catchy campaign slogans in the 1960s, to Bill Clinton showing his saxophone skills in the 1992 campaign. The 2024 presidential election was no different as both candidates tried to use the power of music throughout their campaigns. The earliest and perhaps clearest sign of music’s use from the Democratic candidate Kamala Harris’s campaign was the use of Charli XCX’s album BRAT , which became a meme and cultural phenomenon in its own right. The artist’s endorsement of Harris once she became the Democratic Party’s

Editor, on music's recent influence on American political campaigns

nominee in July, proudly proclaiming that “Kamala IS brat,” helped set the stage for what became a summer of hope and optimism for Democrats. There was now hope for millions of Democratic voters that Donald Trump could be defeated again at the ballot box after the unpopular incumbent president Joe Biden dropped out and the more youthful and invigorative Harris replaced him, perceived to embody the Brat lifestyle of excess and rave culture in a political font. While the summer’s optimism was frittered away later in the campaign and couldn’t successfully translate into votes for Harris, the brief Brat ethos of the Harris campaign balanced a need to excite the Democrats’ youth voters without coming off as pandering for their support.

The later stages of the Harris campaign were characterised by frequent endorsements and rally appearances from celebrity musicians. Beyoncé became the most closely associated singer with the cam -

THE SUMMER’S OPTIMISM WAS FRITTERED AWAY LATER IN THE CAMPAIGN AND COULDN’T SUCCESSFULLY TRANSLATE INTO VOTES FOR HARRIS

paign as her hit song ‘Freedom’ became a rallying call for many of Harris’s campaign events. Several other household names lent their voices to the campaign such as Gracie Abrams, Bruce Springsteen and Mumford & Sons. However, as the failed campaign can be viewed in hindsight, the consistent emphasis on celebrity appearances may have helped maintain the perception of Democrats as an elitist bunch rather than focusing on domestic issues. This isn’t helped with the discovery that the campaign has been left with substantial debt (despite

raising around $1 billion) with many millions being paid to celebrity musicians. Meanwhile, Trump had a much smaller focus on music and celebrity musicians. Trump’s now well-known playlist, including ‘Tiny Dancer’ by Elton John and ‘YMCA’, made a return from his two previous campaigns ( along with his dance moves). He still held the support of a smaller pool of artists like Kid Rock. While these musicians may hold less cultural clout than the average artist who supported Harris, they also embodied his winning coalition of culturally conservative men, many of whom come from rural backgrounds. The strength and number of musician endorsements should not be confused with a winning strategy in presidential elections, but they can be indicative of both the style of campaign being run and the voting coalition which candidates attempt to assemble, whether they be more youthful or from a more cul turally conservative background.

Gershinson, Deputy

Victoria White reflects on this year's MTV EMA Award ceremony

Image: Republic of Korea via Flickr

Image: James Munson via Flickr

screen

Heretic: a psycho-theological horror

ARosie

Peters-McDonald, Deputy

SPOILERS AHEAD

FAR cry from William Thacker’s quaint home in Notting Hill, Scott Beck and Bryan Woods’s 2024 film Heretic takes place on a stormy day in Colorado, at the isolated home of Mr. Reed (Hugh Grant). Not much is known of Mr. Reed at the beginning of the film, other than the fact that he has expressed his interest in learning about the Church of Jesus Christ of the Latterday Saints (or, as some call it, the Mormon church). The film opens on a bench in a suburban village, where we are introduced to two missionaries, Sister Paxton (Chloe East) and Sister Barnes (Sophie Thatcher), ahead of their visit to Mr. Reed’s house. They are discussing pornography, not prudishly, but genuinely, breaking the first of many Mormon stereotypes to be addressed in the film.

I found it impossible, as a fan of both horror and ‘90s romcoms, to separate Hugh Grant’s Mr. Reed from the familiar, awkwardly warm characters he is typically known for. Mr. Reed maintains that well-known charm and chatty air about him for much of Heretic, but, as to be expected of a horror villain, these traits come with an unnerving edge to them. It almost feels as if the film plays on his familiarity, or on the nostalgic factor of seeing him on the big screen again. His character is witty and decidedly dry, dropping references to Radiohead and jokes about Star Wars I, along with the rest of the cinema, laughed out loud at his quip about which Monopoly piece is his favourite (hearing Hugh Grant meow was not on my bucket list, but maybe it should have been).

Editor, reviews the much anticipated film and unpacks its representation of faith

HEARING HUGH GRANT MEOW WAS NOT ON MY BUCKET LIST, BUT MAYBE IT SHOULD HAVE BEEN

There is much to consider surrounding the film’s treatment of religion, and while I don’t claim to have all of the answers, I do feel that Beck and Woods made a clear effort to approach the Church with nuance and humanity. Barnes and Paxton discuss fast food, laugh generously at bad jokes, and are not immune to awkward silences. I’m not suggesting they are an advert for religious lifestyles or even evangelicalism, but the film’s treatment of their personalities feels refreshing. Anyone who has watched the Netflix documentary Keep Sweet, Pray and Obey, which is based on a particularly strict branch of the Mormon church, might expect Heretic to introduce them to two girls who are impossible to relate to. Rather, I found Barnes and Paxton to be individual and kind; defensive of their religion, but with a willingness to debate; and, most significantly, humane.

The film thrives on its psychological elements. What it lacks in jumpscares it makes up for in mind games and metaphors. Paxton’s deep and philosophical mind is unpeeled gradually, although Barnes’s sharp and fierce characterisation makes her Mr. Reed’s most obvious intellectual match.

None of this is to say that I found Heretic to be for or against religion or the Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter-day Saints. I don’t think it seeks to evaluate the Church’s morality at all, but instead

Poffers a perspective on what true fanaticism does to a person, not through either of its missionaries, but through Mr. Reed himself. Control becomes the villain of the film; Mr. Reed, who embodies it, argues that it is the one true religion. What’s striking about Heretic is that some of its most unnerving moments result from the loss of control, and that its ending allows hope, although faltering, to prevail.

A lightning review of Paddington in Peru

Zandie Howells, Online Music Editor, shoots a quick-fire review of the beloved bear’s latest romp

ADDINGTON Bear has become something of a national icon in recent years, perhaps best highlighted in his acquisition of a British passport in October. The passport was needed as a prop for the third instalment of the Paddington movie franchise, Paddington in Peru , which I recently had the opportunity to go and see in the cinema.

Now I really wanted to love this film, as the first two movies in the PBU (Paddington Bear Uni verse) are amazing and I adore them. But it’s just

not quite the same. Maybe it’s the director switch, maybe it’s the absence of Sally Hawkins, maybe it’s the shift from London to the Amazon rainforest, but something just wasn’t right. There is just less charm and warmth and comfort as the others — sorry.

The ending is great and saves the film. It is an amazing wraparound and homage to Paddington and his origins, and in those last 20 minutes I really felt the joy of the first two films, it felt like Paddington was back. The rest is just ok. The story is full of overdone

Atropes and the action just seems silly and ridiculous. There’s an absence of Paddington with the family, well just the family in general (the children barely say anything). I appreciate the gamble taken with the location shift and a turn to an adventure story akin to Jungle Cruise , but it just doesn’t work for me. I want the loveable bear back in Windsor where, as Paddington says himself, he is “at home” with “his family”. Anyway, this film completes a great trilogy. It is certainly the weakest, but it was always going to be hard to match the brilliance of the first two. I’m now off for a marmalade sandwich…

Anora is “sensational”

NORA (2024) is the hottest film in this year’s awards race! Leaving the Cannes Film Festival with the Palme d’Or, much focus is on this picture and its salacious subject matter. It tells the story of Anora, or Ani (Mikey Madison), a stripper and sex worker from Brooklyn, and her whirlwind romance with the son of a Russian oligarch, Ivan, or Vanya (Mark Eidelstein). This relationship takes our loud and loveable protagonist to places she could never fathom; however, the more Ani becomes entangled in Vanya’s life, the more she encounters forces that threaten the permanency and security of this new existence in the upper echelons of society. Anora is a sensational film, offering both infectious, laughout-loud moments and a tender and sincere commentary on the realities of sex work. Sean Baker, the film’s director, builds upon past cinematic portrayals of sex workers to create something that feels fresh and innovative. With the fairytale wonder of Pretty Woman (1990), the dark sordidness of Midnight Cowboy (1969) and the heart-wrenching existentialism of Nights of Cabiria (1957), Anora brings together a plethora of tonal elements, becoming more than just a standard screwball comedy. Even so, the film is not without its critics. Many regard Baker’s new feature as an example of “poverty porn”, in which he depicts the lives of sex workers, as in his previous films Tangerine (2015), The Florida Project (2017) and Red Rocket (2021), as a perverse sense

Thus, behind the intense love story between Ani and Vanya, the nuances, lurking in the corners of the film, are where the more fascinating aspects of character development hide. Even their nicknames act to craft their personas — as a stripper, and as a playboy — through which Anora and Ivan conceal themselves by presenting brash, confident avatars that act as a defence mechanism against the things that threaten them most. Perhaps this film, despite being about situations ostensibly far-removed from our realities, taps into something deeper about how we craft our own identities. Owen Peak, Online Arts & Lit

of entertainment. Anora, which many are lauding as the auteur’s magnum opus, is critiqued by some as being more of the same. However, I beg to differ. Anora is vastly complex; it takes a taboo topic and, through subtle allusions peppered throughout the story, gives the viewer a sense of where our protagonist is going and where she has been. One line, uttered by Ani, about a life-long dream to visit Disneyworld, tugged at my heartstrings; another, in which she bids farewell to the bouncer at the strip club, brought a tear to my eye. Despite the often chaotic and crude fever dream the film is at points, the amount of interiority each character possesses, even if we don’t see it, is astounding. For instance, Igor, a Russian henchman, who at first is thought to have only an auxiliary role in the plot, ends up being a character with a vast inner world that we get chances to glimpse.

PERHAPS THIS FILM, DESPITE BEING ABOUT SITUATIONS FAR-REMOVED FROM OUR REALITIES, TAPS INTO SOMETHING DEEPER ABOUT HOW WE CRAFT OUR OWN IDENTITIES

Image: Pietro Naj-Olear, Flickr

Image: Xfranksun, Wikimiedia

Image: Andrew, Flickr

In conversation with Mark Kermode

Gracie

Moore, Editor-in-Chief, interviews Mark Kermode

about his career and his advice for aspiring journalists

THE field of screem journalism has vastly changed since Mark Kermode started making his career in the ‘80s. As a film critic and musician, he has seen the landscape evolve from something you could pretty much bluff your way into, to something that is utterly dominated by “blogs, emails and social media.”

I spoke to Mark about how he distinguished himself in the field and he took me back to his childhood: “when I was a kid, if you saw a film and wanted to see it again, you’d have to wait for it to come back around to the cinema.” For this reason, he used to take a notebook to write down his thoughts otherwise there was no way of keeping track. Also, he used to collect soundtrack albums and source books — more ways in which his love for film flourished.

“WHEN I WAS A KID, IF YOU SAW A FILM AND WANTED TO SEE IT AGAIN, YOU’D HAVE TO WAIT FOR IT TO COME BACK AROUND TO THE CINEMA”

While at University of Manchester, he mainly wrote gig reviews for The Mancunion , Manchester’s student newspaper, and also was part of City Life magazine, a Manchester-based magazine dealing with news, arts and listings.

Back in those days, Mark tells me that “you weren’t asked for an article in words but rather in inches,” the idea of physical media being quite difficult to wrap our heads around nowadays. In fact, on more than one occasion, his work was torn in half in front of him because it was too long and tearing it physically demonstrated the length it needed to be.

In 1988, he approached Time Out magazine in London with a portfolio. Mark comically bluffed his way into Time Out — “I pretended I had a meeting with the editor, Geoff Andrew, in order to con my way in. That kind of thing would never happened these days.”

I also spoke to Mark about his advice for us as young people, now that the field is changing. He believes he is “one of the few people that actually believe in editors. Sub editors are journalists’ lifeline so if you can find someone to run your copy by, do it.” Alongside this, persistence is important — rejection is a big part of the job.

HPERSISTENCE IS IMPORTANT — REJECTION IS A BIG PART OF THE JOB

Mark moves away from the romanticised view of film criticism and tells me that “a lot of people think they want to be film critics until they do it … anyone can review a good film — the real test is whether you can review a bad film.”

Without a doubt, Mark loves his job. “My favourite thing about it is that I get to spend my life watching films — it’s a real privilege.”

A journalist friend of his once said “make your obsession your profession and you’ll be fine.”

“MAKE YOUR OBSESSION YOUR PROFESSION AND YOU’LL BE FINE”

On the changing landscape, Mark believes that “film criticism has become much more of a dialogue.” This makes sense when you consider the amount of people who leave reviews on social media platforms like Letterboxd as “social media is now essential for getting presence.” Mark engages with social media but has removed himself from X, formerly Twitter, as he says it’s “run by a fascist pig who is in the process of destroying the world.”

ON THE CHANGING LANDSCAPE, MARK BELIEVES THAT “FILM CRITICISM HAS BECOME MUCH MORE OF A DIALOGUE”

On his preparation for his shows and podcasts, he prepares in the same way we would prepare for an exam — by writing notes and doing his homework so there is nothing to make up on the spot, stating that “if you do the prep, you can be a good broadcaster.”

Ultimately, Mark argues that “film criticism doesn’t affect the box office. You’re not there to tell people what to do, just to be part of the conversation about the film landscape. All you’re trying to do is engage with the subject and if you look hard enough, you’ll find something you’ve never seen before.”

“YOU’RE NOT THERE TO TELL PEOPLE WHAT TO DO, JUST TO BE PART OF THE CONVERSATION ABOUT THE FILM LANDSCAPE”

I asked Mark what his favourite film of the year so far has been and without hesitation, he named The Substance . “It’s so compelling and left field, I sat there with a grin on my face the whole time. So many things aren’t good about it but I don’t care — it’s on fire.”

To sum it up, Mark candidly mentioned that really, there was only one review you can make as a film critic: “It’s alright ... if you like that sort of thing.”

Finally, I asked him for his tips for students trying to break into the scene. “You have to identify the flm correctly — people even mix the name up. Where did it come from? Is it a remake or original? How does it fit in with other films in its genre? What did YOU think? Don’t second guess the audience — you can’t pretend to like something you didn’t like. Always refer to other films in the landscape.”

The Harry Potter TV show is not

the Chosen One

Pollyanna Roberts, Screen Editor, discusses the controversial new Harry Potter TV show

ARRY POTTER has had a chokehold on the world for decades now. It is a beloved series that people are still very obsessed with. There have been Harry Potter- themed weddings, board games and theme parks. It is something very precious and dear to its fans, so when HBO announced they were going to remake Harry Potter into a TV series, the muggle world was somewhat sceptical

This new TV series claims to delve deeper into each book, giving the fans the detail that the films simply could not cover. I guess it would be interesting to see Hermione anger the house elves, watch Peeves cause calamity and, oh! Having a Ginny with an actual personality would be nice. But, in all honesty, setting out to produce a realistic and truthful adaptation of Harry Potter is a mammoth task and I just think the fans will not be happy, no matter what is released. There are so many potential avenues that could have been explored by HBO and Warner

Bros. Why does it have to be about Harry Potter again? Yes, we get it, he’s the Chosen One, but we’ve had his story already. Fans want something else to sink their teeth into. It would be interesting to see just regular Hogwarts students going about their day, facing friendship troubles and relationship drama; something that us mere muggles can relate to. Maybe something like The Office , a comedy where we just see real life played out in the magical setting of Hogwarts. Or, they could attempt to tell the story of the Marauders, but I fear that it will also not be well-received, as the Harry Potter fanbase has already come up with their ideal fan cast and story for them.

Die-hard Harry Potter fans from Exeter have spoken about their opinion on the controversial TV show. One fan said that “sometimes it is better to end things on a good note, after success”, which Harry Potter has an abundance of. Another fan claims they are “extremely

sceptical” of the new show, and “after the somewhat disappointing Fantastic Beasts films, [their] expectations are pretty low as the excessive CGI use and strangeplot lines simply don’t hit the same way”. Will this be the same story for this new TV show adaptation? I hope they don’t forget the heart that makes the Harry Potter series so magical.

“SOMETIMES IT IS BETTER TO END THINGS ON A GOOD NOTE, AFTER SUCCESS”

Whether you’ll watch it to hate it or are genuinely curious about this new series, I think it will be interesting, none the less, to see how it plays out. But I sincerely hope the creators of this series have had their fair share of Liquid Luck because I fear they are just setting themselves up for failure. Luckily, if it is a big mess, at least we all know Obliviate.

Image: Gracie Moore

Image: longplay via Flickr

Image: Julie Edwards via WikiMedia Commons

E x etera Exetera...

Let’s Talk About It...

Eloise Grainger, Sport Editor, gives her advice on managing climate anxiety amid COP29

This article contains discussion of mental health struggles which may be triggering for some students

WITH all of the exposure to media platforms, it is easier than ever to be swept away in a downward spiral after reading article after article, blog post after blog post about the state of our environment. Oftentimes, it can be hard to see anything but an apocalyptic future that we are inching ever closer to. Whilst it is important to recognise the damage that human activity is having on planetary health, it is also equally important to recognise signs of eco anxiety. This term refers to the extreme worry and upset people may feel in response to current and future harm to the environment from anthropogenic practices. Recently, social media and news outlets have been detailing the hurricanes that have swept across Mexico and Florida, the tragic floods in Valencia and the COP29 discussions in Baku, Azerbaijan. All of this exposure to troubling visual media and information is a lot to process. Digital platforms only increase our exposure to it, making it easier to experience symptoms of eco anxiety; the symptoms include trouble sleeping or concentrating, sense of helplessness, panic attacks and depression. Perhaps what is more productive than thinking about the possible doom and gloom of the future, is ensuring we focus on the things that are going well for our planet. Start small scale: focus on you and what you can control, such as your consumption of meat, energy and food — making lifestyle changes like walking instead of driving for instance not only helps the environment, but it boosts physical and mental wellbeing too!

Then, think about the positive global news. There are media outlets that round up a weekly report of all of the positive climate news around the world, whether that be land becoming a conservation area or species becoming protected. Maybe even take a break from climate news. Connect with nature that is around you. In Exeter, the south coast and national parks are right on your doorstep! Remember that you also aren’t alone in feeling anxious about the environment, and that there are people to speak to about this. Wellbeing services on campus are always a good place to reach out to for confidential and professional advice on mental wellbeing but consider also reaching out to the Geography Department based in the Amory Building. There are professors who specialise in eco anxiety academically and can point you to wellbeing resources that specifically address how to manage worries around the climate crisis.

Recipe: creamy avocado pasta

THIS delicious, green dish is ideal for anyone who owns a blender and likes smooth and creamy pasta. It’s very customisable so you can try different variations of it every time, adding your favourite vegetables on the side or experimenting with the sauce ingredients.

My personal preference is to add some spinach, either in the sauce to replace the basil or as a side. It adds more taste to the dish and makes it appear even more green!

Step 1: Prepare half of an avocado and put it in a medium-sized glass bowl. Avocado will be the base of your pasta sauce. Start cooking your preferred type of pasta by boiling some water in a saucepan. Don’t forget to add a sprinkle of salt in order to add some additional flavour to it!

Step 2: Continue making the sauce whilst the pasta is cooking. Add 60g of cashew nuts, two garlic cloves, a few basil leaves and juice of half of a lemon. Season with salt and pepper.

What I like to do is add a handful of raw spinach to make it appear greener and add more contrasting flavour. The next step is to add 150-250 ml of coconut milk, depending on how thick you want the sauce to be. The more milk you add, the creamier it will be. Blend everything together until smooth. It might take a few minutes, depending on the type of a blender you will be using.

Step 3: Pour appoximately a tablespoon of olive oil into a frying pan and fry a few cherry tomates with a bit of pepper. If you want, you can also leave the tomatoes raw so that they preserve some of their nutritional value. Feel free to add any other vegetables.

Step 4: Add your pasta and sauce and combine everything together. Serve with a few basil leaves on top for decoration. Enjoy a warm plate of green, aromatic pasta — perfect for one of those days when you feel like eating something healthy and quick to prepare!

Agata Koralewska, Deputy Editor

Exeposé archives: student life in the years of Section 28

LAST week saw the launch of oral history archives pertaining to experiences of Section 28 amongst queer people, educators and youth workers living in the South West (see the full article on page 5). Section 28, launched under Margaret Thatcher, was aimed at preventing the ‘promotion’ of homosexuality — in other words silencing LGBTQ+ people. Exeposé articles from the period represent a growing queer community in Exeter in spite of such legislation.

This edition of Exeposé’s LBG week supplement (T was not added to the acronym until the late 1990s), is from January 1995 and despite oppressive legislation (the article itself references a proposal to equalise the age of consent for gay men being shot down in the House of Commons), acts as a celebration of gay culture.

Through celebrity quotes and input — the supplement even features a letter to Exeposé from Ian McKellen — articles by students rallying against Section 28 and homophobia, and the promotion of safe sex and AIDs awareness, the issue asserts the right of LGB students to exist and be seen. It’s also a telling reminder in an era of increasing trans-erasure and transphobic legislation, not to be complacent but to continue fighting for your rights. Section 28 wasn’t repealed until 2003, but it was defeated because despite everything, queer people fought, existed and continued to live. In fostering a community within Exeter, Exeposé played a part in that survival. More information about the LGBTQ+ history of Exeposé can be found in the Special Collections.

Amy Rushton, Editor-in-Chief

Image: Amy Rushton

Image: Marco Verch via ccnull.de

Image: Dean Calma / IAEA

Image: Amy Rushton

STUDY BREAK

CROSSWORD

Across

6 Letter of the Greek alphabet (5)

7 Even out (7)

9 At an initial stage (5,2)

10 Porcelain (5)

11 English river (5)

13 Plainer (anagram) — nutty chocolate filling (7)

15 Expedience — set span (anagram) (7)

17 Spring-blooming plant (5)

19 French impressionist painter, b. 1834 (surname) (5)

21 Insect feeler (7)

23 Commanded — arranged (7)

24 Friend — comrade (5)

ANSWERS

1 Align again (8)

2 Newborn (4)

3 Speak freely (4,2)

4 Type of graph (3,5)

5 Mythical Himalayan creature (4)

6 Deal with (5)

8 Gause (anagram) — constant custom (5)

12 Pride and joy — austerer (anagram) (8)

14 American state (8)

15 Branch out — augment (3,2)

16 Injures with steam (6)

18 Keyboard instrument (5)

20 Gallery of a theatre (4)

22 Former Russian emperor (4)

SUDOKU

TRIVIA CORNER

1. WHAT IS THE ONLY US STATE THAT BORDERS JUST ONE OTHER?

2. WHAT IS THE LONGEST-RUNNING BROADWAY SHOW? 3. WHICH COUNTRY ORIGINATED THE SPORT OF CURLING? 4. WHAT ARE THE ONLY TWO MAMMALS THAT LAY EGGS?

WHAT FRUIT IS USED TO FLAVOUR THE LIQUEUR SOUTHERN COMFORT? 6. WHAT CONDIMENT WAS USED AS MEDICINE IN THE 1830S? 7. WHAT IS THE UNIT OF CURRENCY IN LAOS?

Across: 6 Theta, 7 Plateau, 9 Early on, 10 China, 11 Trent, 13

Praline, 15 Aptness, 17 Tulip, 19 Degas, 21 Antenna, 23 -Or

dered, 24 Amigo.

Down: 1 Reorient, 2 Baby, 3 Open up, 4 Bar chart, 5 Yeti, 6

Treat, 8 Usage, 12 Treasure, 14 Illinois, 15 Add to, 16 Scalds, 18 Piano, 20 Gods, 22 Tsar.

International

96 hours in Berlin

Jed H. Gibbins,

IF you Google ‘Which European city has the best night life?’ Berlin will be the answer in nine of 10 cases and for good reason. Berlin, the capital of Germany, has a history like no other in Europe. A city divided from 1961 to 1989 led to two distinctive cultures developing and one of those was the love of techno music. When Germany reunified, East Berlin had many vacant buildings leftover and in those buildings, nightclubs were established. I was fortunate enough to be in Berlin recently and it certainly lived up to the expectation. Firstly, the bar scene was very different to the UK. Smoking in bars in Berlin is legal, so when walking into a bar, I was washed with clouds of smoke. Alcohol in Berlin is remarkably cheap. I paid €2.20 for a pint in a bar, and 25¢ for a can of beer in Lidl, this is thanks to the much lower tax on alcohol compared to the UK.

DINTERNATIONAL EDITOR: Henry

International Editor, explores his recent trip to Berlin

ALCOHOL IN BERLIN IS REMARKABLY CHEAP

On the clubbing side, Berlin was top class. The music was good and loud. The people were fun. The atmosphere was energetic and alive. Although originally eager, the two hour queue to enter the infamous nightclub, Berghain, dissuaded me from trying. Its popularity was not understated, Berlin’s love for techno was on full display. UNESCO has added Berlin’s techno scene to its cultural heritage list, which helps protect and support the techno industry. Interestingly, I twice found clubs where men were charged more for entry than women. Outside of Berlin’s nightlife, the city bustled during the day. Central Berlin has many museums, so much so it has a Museumsinsel or Museum Island. The

DDR (East Germany) museum is a must visit, it has lots of Cold War memorabilia, interactive experiences with East German radio and TV or a simulated Trabant (East German car brand) driving experience. The Marx-Engels Forum, a central Berlin park (with statues of them both respectively) is worth seeing. Visiting the East-Side-Gallery, you get to see remnants of the Berlin Wall, still with artwork upon it, including the famous Fraternal Kiss painting. The artwork, museums and nightlife are just a few of the reasons you should visit. My two big tips though: carry lots of cash, as card is rarely accepted outside of big shops, and eat lots of kebabs — they are far superior to anything you will find in the UK.

Anderson

Jed H. Gibbins

What Trump’s win means for the UK

Harry Morrison, Music Editor, discusses the implications of the US election

ONALD Trump’s victory in the United States’s Presidential Election has not only caused doubts and fears on the home front of America, but also in the United Kingdom. Major implications from the former president’s win have shown a path that might directly affect the UK, with an increase in tariffs on imports, as well as raising questions on defence spending, at the heart of these concerns. Worldwide tariffs have been a top economic threat to nations since Trump’s victory, with him previously stating that goods imported into the US from around the world would be increased by 10 per cent, rising further to 60 per cent on Chinese goods. However, sources close to President Trump have told The Telegraph that there is a possibility that the UK could be ex -

empt from these global tariffs. There is still no clear in dication on whether these tariffs will affect the UK, but it has been said that UK Government officials have started to be advised on possible impacts if these tariffs were imposed. Economists at the University of Sussex’s Centre for Inclusive Trade Policy (CITP) have claimed that UK exports globally could fall more than 2.6 per cent. All in all, this could see a

major decline to the UK’s economic output annually, by 0.8 per cent, potentially resulting in a £22 billion hit. UK defence spending has also been a rigorous area of contention, with Trump raising concerns on our defence strategy, particularly surrounding his views on NATO and commitment to funding. Trump’s scepticism to-

International Students’ Day

wards financing European defence might push the UK and EU to increase military spending, with Britain striving for 2.5 per cent of GDP defence funding amidst financial constraints. In the midst of the war in Ukraine, Trump has been extremely vocal on his anti-funding views, adding further pressure to many European and NATO countries’ defence budget.

BRITAIN STRIVING FOR 2.5 PER CENT OF GDP DEFENCE FUNDING

A clearer image of what to expect as an outcome of Trump’s victory is yet to come, but at this moment economical concerns still linger.

Henry Anderson, International Editor, explains what the University has done and the history behind the day

ON the 17th November, we celebrated International Students’ Day. In honour of this, the University put together a recipe share and set up some stands in the Forum, along with releasing a report into our international students. The recipe share can be found on the University’s “International Students’ Day” web page, and contains recipes from around the world, from Peru and Mexico to Iran and Nepal. It has appetisers, main courses, desserts and snacks, and showcases the various flavours of home for our student population. Some of them share why the recipe is significant to them or the history behind its creation. Stands in the Forum showcased the recipes and explained the background to the book, and there was a large map where students could pin where they were from. According to the University, there are 7500 international students here, from 150 countries. Although the ini-

tial submission period is now closed, you can still submit new recipes to add them to the collection! Alongside this initiative, the University released a report about international students, detailing its vision and approach to our international community. Their aim is “to ensure students discover, grow, and thrive; achieving their personal goals within inclusive communities, supported by excellent services.” To achieve this, they put together a comprehensive feedback plan, involving pop

ups on campus, surveys, workshops and research in partnership with the Guild and the Falmouth campus’s Student Union. They found that 88 per cent of students feel welcomed, but only a third integrated, and that there were significant language barriers to access support and provide feedback. As a result, they have launched a three-year strategy delivery plan, which includes elements of Equal-

ity and Diversity, student voice, sustainability, student services and targeted support. Some of the planned policies are a Global Festival, bespoke pre-arrival advice, enhanced service availability and strengthened student voice mechanisms. International Students’ Day has its roots in World War Two. On the 28th October 1941, Jan Opletal was shot at a Czechoslovak independence rally, and died two weeks later on the 11th November. As a result, students and professors held another demonstration on the day of his burial, four days after his death. German forces stormed and closed all Czech higher education facilities in response, and arrested 1200 students who were sent to concentration camps. On the 17th November, the Germans executed nine students and professors. The day is meant to be apolitical, and a celebration of all students worldwide.

Image: Jed Gibbins

Image: Gage Skidmore, Flickr

Image: Jiří Sedláček, Wikimedia Commons

Qatar expels Hamas

Charlie Gershinson, Deputy Editor, discusses the end of Qatar as a mediator

QATAR’S role as a mediator between Israel and Hamas has come to an end in recent weeks as they have ordered Hamas’s leaders to leave the country.

The Qatari government has played a significant role over the past year of the Israel-Hamas war as third parties, most notably the US and Egypt, have attempted to secure a ceasefire with key Hamas leaders who had been based in the country’s capital, Doha, since 2012.

This latest move came as American efforts under President Joe Biden have been halted and amid the death of American-Israeli hostage Hersch Goldberg-Polin. Along with the refusal of

Hamas’s leaders to agree to the conditions for a ceasefire, the Qatari government saw fit to expel their leaders from the country. One of those leaders, Khaled Meshaal, has also been charged with planning the October 7 terrorist attack in Israel by the US Department of Justice.

THE QATARI GOVERNMENT HAS PLAYED A SIGNIFCANT ROLE

The US have repeatedly leveraged Qatar to throw out the Hamas operatives from their country as they refused to stop the war in Gaza. The US and Qa -

tar are allies in the region, with the US holding a military base in the country. A Hamas operative said that their deportation from the country was “baseless” and a mere “pressure tactic.”

Qatar said last week that the Hamas operatives have now left the country, though their office is still present in Doha, suggesting they may expect to return at some point. There is now speculation on where exactly those operatives have decamped, with many rumours that they have left for Turkey. However, the Turkish government have so far denied those claims with the US saying they would not approve such a move.

MULTILINGUAL ARTICLE

Polskie Święto Niepodległości

Antoni Kałduński, wyjaśnia Święto Niepodległości, związane z nim uroczystości na całym świecie i historyczną symbolikę jego obchodów

JEDENASTEGO listopada Polacy świętowali Narodowe Święto Niepodległości, upamiętniając 106 lat suwerenności odzyskanej od Cesarstwa Niemieckiego, Rosji i Austro-Węgier. Polska zniknęła z mapy Europy na 123 lata. Zakończenie Pierwszej Wojny Światowej stało się kluczowym punktem zwrotnym, umożliwiając Polakom odzyskanie prawa do samostanowienia i niepodległości w 1918 roku. Jednak w okresie komunizmu Świeto Niepodległości nie było świętem narodowym; zostało oficjalnie przywrócone dopiero w 1989 roku, po upadku Żelaznej Kurtyny i zakończeniu rządów komunistycznych w Polsce. Ten dzień to barwne święto patriotyzmu, pełne tradycji, które honorują historię Polski i jej bohaterów. Jednym z głównych wydarzeń jest parada wojskowa w Warszawie, podczas której Polskie Siły Zbrojne z dumą prezentują swoją siłę. Paradę wieńczy uroczysta ceremonia przy Grobie Nieznanego Żołnierza, podczas której przedstawiciele władz składają wieńce w hołdzie tym, którzy oddali życie za wolną Polskę. Trwałym symbolem tego dnia jest Marsz Niepodległości w stolicy. W tym roku, według Polskiej Agencji Prasowej, w marszu wzięło udział około 200 tysięcy osób, co stanowi silny dowód patriotycznego ducha Polek i Polaków. Jednak te obchody nie ograniczają się

wyłącznie do Polski. Na całym świecie polskie społeczności z dumą upamiętniają swoje dziedzictwo. W Londynie Polski Ośrodek SpołecznoKulturalny (POSK) zorganizował spektakl zatytułowany „Świecie nasz”, który łączył muzykę, wdzięczność i podziw dla ojczyzny. Tymczasem w Chicago — gdzie znajduje się jedna z największych polonii na świecie — Polskie Muzeum w Ameryce było gospodarzem tradycyjnego programu, zorganizowanego przez Związek Harcerstwa Polskiego (ZHP). Wydarzenie obejmowało polskie pieśni, tańce ludowe oraz przemówienie Wicekonsul RP w Chicago, Agaty Grochowskiej. Jako Polak mieszkający za granicą, głęboko porusza mnie widok tych wyrazów wspólnego dziedzictwa i miłości do naszego kraju. Tutaj, w Exeter, miałem okazję świętować z Polskim Stowarzyszeniem Studenckim. Z tej okazji zorganizowaliśmy Patriotyczny Pub Crawl oraz prezentację historyczną z quizem, łącząc zabawę z refleksją nad trudami i zwycięstwami, które kształtowały historię naszego narodu. Narodowe Święto Niepodległości to coś więcej niż kolejna data w kalendarzu. To moment, który łączy Polaków wszędzie — przekraczając pokolenia, granice i życiowe doświadczenia. To święto wspólnej wytrwałości, miłości do ojczyzny i poświęceń, które doprowadziły do odrodzenia Polski jako niezależnego państwa.

Polish Independence Day

Antoni Kałduński, explains the significance of Polish Independence Day, the ways in which it is celebrated around the world and the historical significance of events that commemorate it.

ON the 11th November, Poles celebrated National Independence Day, marking 106 years of sovereignty regained from the German, Russian, and Austro-Hungarian Empires.

Before 1918, Poland had been wiped off the map of Europe for 123 years. The resolution of World War One became a critical turning point, enabling Poles to reclaim their right to self-determination and nationhood.

But in the communist era, Polish Independence Day wasn’t a national holiday, it was only officially brought back in 1989, following the fall of the Iron Curtain and the end of the Communist government in Poland.

The day is a vibrant celebration of patriotism, filled with traditions that honour Poland’s history and its heroes. One of the central events is the military parade in Warsaw, where the Polish armed forces proudly showcase their strength. The parade is followed by a solemn ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, during which government officials lay wreaths to pay tribute to those

THE DAY IS A VIBRANT CELEBRATION OF PATRIOTISM

who gave their lives for an independent Poland.

An enduring symbol of the day’s importance is

the Independence March in the capital. This year, according to the Polish Press Agency, approximately 200,000 people participated in the march, depicting a powerful testament to the patriotic spirit of Poles. However, these celebrations aren’t confined to Poland. Across the globe, Polish communities commemorate their heritage with pride. In London, the Polish Social and Cultural Association organised a spectacle called “Our World,” combining music, gratitude, and admiration for the homeland. Meanwhile, in Chicago — home to one of the largest Polish diasporas in the world — the Polish Museum of America hosted a traditional programme organised by the Polish Scouting Association (ZHP). The event featured Polish songs, folk dances, and an address by the Vice Consul of the Republic of Poland, Agata Grochowska. As a Pole living abroad, it is deeply moving to witness these expressions of shared heritage and love for our country. Here in Exeter, I had the chance to celebrate with the University’s Polish Society. To mark the occasion, we organised a Patriotic Pub Crawl alongside a historical presentation and quiz, blending fun with reflection on the struggles and triumphs that define our nation’s history. Polish Independence Day is more than yet another date on the calendar. It is a moment that unites Poles everywhere — bridging generations, geography, and experiences. It celebrates shared resilience, the love for our motherland, and the sacrifices that led to Poland’s rebirth as an independent state.

Image: Лобачев Владимир, Wikimedia Commons

Image: Omar Chatriwala, Flickr

Sci-Tech

Bitcoin surges following Trump's victory

Ella-Jade Smith, Sci-Tech Editor, examines the impact the U.S. election has had on the crypto-sphere.

BITCOIN, the cryptocurrency developed in 2009, which remained effectively worthless in its first four years of circulation, has made headlines once again. Surging past $90,000 in a historic climb, the cryptocurrency’s 11 per cent jump in just one day comes off the back of Donald Trump’s victory in the 2024 U.S. Presidential election.

While his victory has seen the U.S. dollar maintain a six month high, in the tech world, Trump’s victory marks an even greater achievement. Bitcoin, the first decentralised cryptocurrency, has surged. Trump’s campaign trail pledges, which promised to make the U.S. ‘the crypto capital of the planet’, have evidently resonated with investors, pushing Bitcoin the closest it has ever been to the highly anticipated $100,000 mark.

In the tech world, Trump's victory marks an even greater achievement

The intersection between politics

and technology is nothing new. However, Trump’s influence has emphasised just how tightly intertwined these two sectors have become. His openly favourable stance on cryptocurrencies, including proposals to reduce regulatory scrutiny, has been widely interpreted as a green light by the cryptocurrency community. It is apparent that Trump’s administration will act as an ally to cryptocurrencies. This presidential backing has secured investors’ trust.

In the run-up to the election, Trump discussed his intentions to create a ‘strategic’ Bitcoin stockpile, and appoint cryptocurrency specific financial regulators within his cabinet. These notions have been fervently promoted by prominent tech-head, Elon Musk, who has been present throughout Trump’s campaign as an active supporter. Through his rhetoric on the importance of innovation within the crypto-sphere, Musk has further energised the markets, already buoyed by Trump’s pro-crypto stance.

Musk’s appearance at Trump rallies, not to mention his $100 million dona-

tion and public endorsements of the campaign, emphasise the growing synergy between tech-giants and politicians.

In the run-up to the election, Trump discussed his intentions to create a ‘strategic’ Bitcoin stockpile

However, the broader implications of this surge extend far beyond Bitcoin itself. There is a likelihood that such highprofile support could drive significant innovation in blockchain technologies and digital finance, all of which would assist the U.S. in securing the position of global leader in the crypto-space. Despite the potential these developments could pose for the U.S., they are not without risk. Postulations to reduce regulation within the crypto-sphere could expose investors to increased volatility of their shares, security threats, and systemic risks such as fraud or theft. Between figure-heads like Musk, holding a monopoly over the success

of decentralised currencies, and the fact the stability of cryptocurrency is reliant on technology that could experience failure at any point, there is little certainty surrounding Bitcoin. It is cur-

rently indeterminate whether these upwards trends will continue, or if Trump’s vows of allyship to crypto will join the ever-growing pile of broken promises.

Memories beyond the brain?

Eloise Grainger, Sport Editor, investigates the prospect that memory functions may exist in cells outside the brain.

IT has long been accepted that the brain and the brain cells are responsible for forming and storing memories. But recent research has revealed that other parts of the body are responsible for this role too. In these recent studies, kidney and nerve tissue cells observed in a laboratory, were found to learn and form memories in similar ways to neurons. The research intended to find out if non-brain cells aid in memory production. The lead author of the study, Nikolay V. Kukushkin, published these findings in the Nature Communications Journal.

Kidney and nerve tissue cells... were found to learn and form memories in similar ways to neurons

During the experiments, the nonbrain tissue cells were exposed to chemical patterns to mimic neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitters send signals between neurons in the brain when we are learning and process-

ing new information. These patterns were conducted in a way by the scientists to replicate the massed space effect; this term refers to the logically spaced-out learning of information as opposed to cramming informa -

tion in one sitting. This method has proven that humans retain information better in small increments over time rather than excessive amounts of information in a short period. In response to the stimuli, the

memory gene in the cell was triggered — this is a significant find as it is the same gene that is activated when the brain and its cells detect a pattern in the information and then continue to restructure their connections to form memories. Scientists knew this was occurring in the non-brain cell as they engineered the cells to make a glowing protein. When the memory gene was on, this protein glowed.

When the memory gene was on, this protein glowed

Research found that in non-brain cells exposed to spaced out chemical patterns, similar to spaced out study sessions for example, there was a stronger response from the memory gene. The prolonged chemical reactions, however, didn’t respond as strongly to the pulses. The cells, therefore, could determine whether the information was repeated or prolonged — just like the brain. The ability to learn from spaced repetition is not a unique feature of

the brain, it is also evident in other cells of the body. This is an exciting new opportunity presented to scientists, as this discovery could help treat memory-related illnesses or enhance learning techniques as well as understanding the function of memory more widely.

This discovery could help treat memoryrelated illnesses or enhance learning techniques as well as understanding the function of memory more widely.

Scientists are suggesting that we need to treat the body much like the brain, as it is clear that the body can learn from memories too. Some have made suggestions that cancer cells could remember the pattern of chemotherapy. Meanwhile, others have considered that the pancreas could remember the pattern of past meals to support healthy levels of blood glucose, that could be a lifechanging development for diabetics.

Ella-Jade Smith

Image: Karolina Grabowska from PexelsCommons

Image: MOSSY-SPARKLES from DeviantArt

AI-powered microbiome tracking

Saja Isabella Ilott discusses the newest AI software which allows for microbial-based tracking

RESEARCHERS at Lund University have developed an innovative AI-powered tool, the microbiome geographic population structure (mGPS), which can trace an individual’s recent locations by analysing microbial traces. This groundbreaking tool has the potential to revolutionise how diseases are tracked and managed while offering forensic scientists a powerful resource for solving criminal cases.

This groundbreaking tool has the potential to revolutionise how diseases are tracked

By leveraging machine learning to analyse microbial relative sequence abundances (RSAs), mGPS provides precise geographic predictions. In tests, it successfully identified the source city of urban microbiome samples with 92 per cent accuracy and pinpointed the origins of samples within cities, such as subway stations, with 82 per cent accuracy. Additionally, it performed remarkably well with environmental samples, predicting soil and marine sample locations with 86 per cent and 74 per cent accuracy, respectively.

These results highlight its versatility across diverse environments, making it a robust tool for studying microbial movement and its applications in public health and beyond.

A robust tool for studying microbial movement and its applications in public health and beyond

A key feature of mGPS is its use of Geographically Informative Taxa (GITs) — specific microbial groups whose regional variations act as biological markers of location. This capability enables mGPS to differentiate between local and nonlocal microbes, making it invaluable for understanding the spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) genes and tracking their global transmission.

This capability enabled mGPS to differentiate between local and nonlocal microbes

The ability to trace AMR movement is particularly critical as antibiotic resistance poses a growing threat to global health. During the Covid-19 pandemic, mGPS could have played a pivotal role in track -

ing the origins and spread of SARSCoV-2, providing real-time insights that could have informed containment measures. It could also have identified hotspots for AMR, aiding in the management of secondary bacterial infections common among Covid-19 patients and reducing the inappropriate use of antibiotics.

The ability to trace AMR movement is particularly critical as antibiotic resistance poses a growing threat

Beyond pandemic responses, mGPS offers transformative potential for preventing future outbreaks. By continuously monitoring microbiomes in urban areas, transportation hubs, or natural environments, it could provide early warnings about new pathogens or changes in microbial communities that signal potential outbreaks. Its fine-scale resolution enables rapid identification of pathogen sources, facilitating swift interventions like targeted quarantines or travel restrictions. The data generated by mGPS could also inform public health policies and resource allocation during crises. On a global scale, its integration

The data generated by mGPS could also inform public health policies and resource allocation during crises

into a surveillance network could improve international collaboration, enhancing our collective ability to re -

spond to emerging infectious diseases. The tool’s applications extend to forensic science, where it could assist in criminal investigations by identifying geographic origins of individuals or objects. The mGPS system is a groundbreaking advancement, offering hope for improved disease prevention, management, and forensic capabilities in a post-pandemic world.

Anthropic hires their first ‘AI Welfare’ researcher

Ella-Jade Smith, Sci-Tech Editor, assesses a tech start-up’s decision to begin assessing AI’s rights

HOW often do you thank your AI? Seriously, whilst barking orders at ChatGPT for not writing the essay you left until the last minute, have you stopped to say thank you? I am partially joking.

However, Anthropic, a U.S-based AI start-up has recently hired their first dedicated “AI Welfare” researcher, marking a shift within the tech world to -

wards greater moral consideration and protection of Artificial Intelligence.

Kyle Fish, Anthropic’s newest hire, joined the company following his copublication of the research paper ‘Taking AI Welfare Seriously’. Fish argues it is a ‘realistic possibility’ that in the near-future, AI will be conscious and robustly energetic, traits that experts use to qualify whether something is

worthy or not of moral consideration. Fish reiterates that at the current time, there is substantial uncertainty to his hypotheses, and that these are precautionary measures intended to improve our understanding of rapidly developing Artificial Intelligence. This does not mean that ChatGPT is suddenly sentient, but it is important that these considerations are made

to avoid the mishandling of AI systems as they become more advanced.

The current advice on how to best care for AI currently includes integrating a ‘marker-method’, used by some researchers to identify animal consciousness. This proposes flagging indicators within AI systems that may correlate with consciousness. As it stands, these markers remain incredibly speculative but, it is helping to develop patterns which will assist recognition of consciousness, if it does occur. Anthropic are not alone in their endeavour for understanding, with Google and OpenAI having already hired or seeking to hire AI welfare researchers.

that companies may mistreat conscious AI on a mass scale, there is an equal concern that companies could waste resources protecting AI systems that in reality require no moral consideration. Incorrectly anthropomorphising AI has already proven problematic. Blake Lamoine, an ex-Google engineer, was fired for his belief that the company’s AI-system was sentient, and deserving of welfare provisions. Similarly, Microsoft’s AI chatbot ‘Sydney’, was regarded as so humanlike by users that they became concerned it was sentient and suffering.

Incorrectly anthropomorphising AI has already proven problematic Anthropic are not alone in their endeavour for understanding, with Google and OpenAI having already hired or seeking to hire AI welfare researchers

However, there are two sides to this coin. Whilst there are concerns

Despite AI’s ability to simulate human-like responses, this doesn’t necessarily indicate genuine feelings or experience. We have a long way to go before we can truly understand the power of AI, and it is roles like Fish’s that will begin to tackle the deeply philosophical questions of how to identify sentience.

Image: FMT

Image: European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL)

Formula 1 Contract Chaos

Eloise Grainger, Sport Editor,

rounds up the recent changes in seats of the 2025 season

FORMULA 1, the pinnacle of motorsport, is where every driver aspires to reach, and just one seat remains on the F1 grid for 2025.

Earlier this month, Kick Sauber announced they are dropping both drivers of Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu come the end of this 2024 campaign. One seat was already assigned to Nico Hulkenberg for next year and he will be making the move from the American team, Haas, to the Swiss-based outfit.

Soon after Sauber confirmed their driver departures, it was announced that Gabriel Bortoleto will join the team. It seems unsurprising as to why Zhou has been released as this season, he has significantly

underperformed. His recent run of form has seen him consistently line up at the back of the grid, often crossing the line in p15 or p19.

It was announced that Gabriel Bortoleto will join the team

It is hard to measure Bottas’s progress this season whilst he is in arguably the worst car on the grid. It may be time to bid farewell to the Finn, but he does seem in good spirits, and it is rumoured he will take up a management role as an advisor at Mercedes. Bottas has become a huge personality on the grid in recent years, but this isn’t enough of a reason to keep him

tethered to the F1 seat. Hulkenberg will provide the experience needed as a rookie enters the team. If Bottas had stayed, it would be like having two of the same drivers and wouldn’t have future-proofed the team.

F1 teams appear to finally warm up to the idea of bringing in new talent to the paddock after the recent stellar performances from the likes of Colapinto, Lawson and Bearman.

For Sauber, they will benefit from having a blend of youth and experience in their driver line-up. Bortoleto is looking set to win the F2 championship, and with the F3 title already under his belt, it’s clear why Sauber picked him from the driver pool. His Brazilian fan base will also boost his chances in F1; Brazil has previously

Trepresented Formula 1 greatly through their drivers, most notably Ayrton Senna. The vibrant and lively F1 community in South America is something they will want to capitalise on. With one seat still available at VCARB alongside Yuki Tsunoda, it is up for debate who will snatch it up. Colapinto and Lawson are both deserving of a seat, and with Perez continuing to have a shocking season, it seems Redbull might let go of the Mexican to free up a seat for another rookie.

If just one

more rookie joins the 2025 grid, then a quarter of the seats will be taken by new drivers — what a refreshing outlook for Formula 1 which has seen a stagnant period where teams recycled the same drivers over and over. This is an exciting shift in F1, now that teams have gained the confidence to sign young talent.

Sport spotlight: Fives

Henry Anderson, International Editor, recounts his recent participation in a university tournament

HIS week I wanted to highlight a niche sport I play: Fives. It is a bit like squash but played in an outdoor court with your hands. The rules are complicated, but essentially, you play as a pair against another pair, and your aim is to get points by hitting the ball “up”, above a line on the front wall. You only win a point if you are serving and if the other pair fails to get the ball “up” or it bounces twice. There are a host of other rules and terminology, which I

won’t go into, but it is a fast paced, unpredictable and exciting game. Crucially, it is a sport with no referee, meaning that the players themselves make decisions, creating an environment in which you learn to negotiate and be honest. It is an old game, initially played by medieval peasants against the walls of their church, and which was then picked up mostly by independent schools. Now dominated by the likes of Eton and Harrow, courts do also

exist in non-feepaying schools. The Eton Fives Association is devoted to building more courts and trying to get further people involved in the game. Here at Exeter, myself, Frankie Manderson-Harkin and two other students recently took part in a university tournament in London. Fred Prickett and Tom Hoskins, did well, reaching the semi-final. Unfortunately, due to Fred sustaining an injury in a previous game, they were unable to go any further.

Exeter Chiefs dominate at the derby

Rhys Thomas, Finance Executive, reports on the local clash where the Chiefs look set to make a comeback

THE Exeter Chiefs roared into the new season with a blistering 68-7 victory over the Cornish Pirates at the Mennaye Field, delivering an emphatic statement in the opening round of the Premiership Rugby Cup. This dominant performance has reignited hopes of a resurgence for the Chiefs, who have faced challenges since their title-winning exploits in 2020. The departures of key players such as Sam Simmonds, Luke Cowan-Dickie and

Jack Nowell left significant gaps in the squad, while injuries to pivotal players disrupted their rhythm in crucial matches. Inconsistent form since their doublewinning campaign has made rebuilding a tough challenge for the Chiefs.

Fielding an uncharacteristically strong lineup, Exeter wasted no time asserting their dominance. Will Rigg’s early try, followed by Paul Brown-Bampoe’s opportunistic brace, set the tone for a commanding display. The forward pack, led by Dan Frost and Jack Innard, rediscovered the power and cohesion that once defined the Chiefs, bulldozing through the Pirates’ defence. Meanwhile, Josh Hodge delivered a masterclass, capping

a flawless performance with nine conversions and two tries. His precision and creativity were emblematic of a squad determined to make a statement.

His precision and creativity were emblematic of a squad determined to make a statement

The Cornish Pirates — stalwarts of English rugby’s second tier — found themselves outclassed by Exeter’s superior pace, physicality and clinical precision. Their lone try came courtesy of fly-half Bruce Houston, who exploited a rare defensive lapse from the Chiefs. Despite spirited moments, the Pirates struggled to gain any foothold in the game, with their set-piece inefficiency and inability to retain possession leaving them vulnerable to Exeter’s relentless attacking waves. For the Pirates, this derby highlighted areas needing

urgent improvement if they are to compete with similarly equipped opponents in the Premiership Rugby Cup.

As a Cardiff boy, I couldn’t help but reflect on the parallels between Exeter and Cardiff Rugby. Exeter’s rediscovered forward dominance, highlighted by their efficient maul work and breakdown control, could be an asset to Cardiff, particularly in tight encounters against physical sides like the Bulls. Conversely, Exeter could draw inspiration from Cardiff’s thrilling counterattack flair, epitomised by quick ball movement from players like Owen Lane and Jarrod Evans. If Exeter can blend Cardiff's attacking flair with their forward dominance, they could become a truly formidable force once again.

Looking ahead, Exeter must prove this performance was no fluke. With Premiership heavyweights like Saracens and Sale on the horizon, sustaining this cohesion and clinical edge will be critical. Players like Josh Hodge and Dan Frost will need to lead by example as the Chiefs face sterner tests. This result not only delighted the travelling Chiefs supporters but also set the tone for a season full of promise, reigniting hope among the Sandy Park faithful. Perhaps, at last, the Chiefs are ready to roar back to their former glory.

Image: Fanny Schertzer, Sports Gazette

Image: Reuters

Image: Henry Anderson

NFL midseason review

Ben Scott, Sport Editor, reviews the NFL season so far and what to look out for next

THE 2024 NFL season is reaching its midpoint, and the action has been nothing short of spectacular. Dominating the headlines are the Kansas City Chiefs, who continue to set the standard with an almost perfect 9-1 record. Led by quarterback Patrick Mahomes, the Chiefs have solidified their status as Super Bowl favourites, combining explosive offence with a lockdown defence. Head coach Andy Reid has climbed to fourth place on the all-time wins list, while defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo has built one of the league’s most for-

midable defensive units. Behind the scenes, the organisation deserves significant praise for smart moves like re-signing running back Kareem Hunt and acquiring receiver DeAndre Hopkins to address key needs. The loss to Buffalo ended the streak of 14 consecutive victories, but Kansas City’s entire organisation continues to make all the right decisions.

Internationally, the league’s footprint continues to grow, with successful games hosted in London and, for the first time, Germany. These matchups not only thrilled European fans but also underscored the

NFL’s ambition to expand its global reach. The energy at Frankfurt’s stadium during the Panther’s clash with the New York Giants epitomised this growth, showcasing the sport’s ability to unite fans across continents. Among individual performances, the Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson has reclaimed the MVP-level form that earned him the prestigious honour in 2019. With his electrifying dual-threat capabilities, Jackson has guided the Ravens to one of the league’s top records, igniting conversations about a potential third MVP win. In the Ravens’s midseason assessment, PFF highlighted Jackson as their best player (91.7 rating), a career-best thanks to a career-low turnover-worthy play rate of just 1.3 per cent. Jackson also ranks in the 97th percentile for clean pocket performance and positively graded throws, showcasing his exceptional efficiency and decision-making.

Beyond the numbers, the season has delivered moments of pure magic. Saquon Barkley’s backwards hurdle over a defender is must-see sporting theatre, showcasing the athleticism that makes the NFL so captivating.

Likewise, Garrett Wilson of the New York Jets provided a highlight-reel catch that defied logic, cementing his

Ereputation as one of the league’s rising stars. The New York Jets Aaron Rodgers experiment, however, looks to have failed as they slide to 3-8.

Not all the headlines have been positive, though. Several franchises, such as the Carolina Panthers, New York Giants, and Jacksonville Jaguars, continue to struggle, and must surely be looking to the 2025 NFL Draft (April 24-26) to reset their teams with an infusion of young talent. But will their coaches survive more rebuilds?

But will their coaches survive more rebuilds?

As the league heads into the second half of the season, fans can expect even more drama, from playoff races to record-breaking performances. With the Chiefs maintaining their unbeaten run, Jackson dazzling in Baltimore, and international games creating unforgettable experiences, the

NFL’s 2024 campaign is shaping up to be one to remember. Whether your team is thriving or rebuilding, there’s no denying that this season has been a testament to why football remains America’s game— and a global phenomenon.

15/2 Pittsburgh Stealers - 18/1

San Fransisco 49ers - 18/1

Houston Texans - 22/1

Green Bay Packers - 20/1

MinnesotaVikings - 22/1

Los Angeles Chargers - 25/1

England in the West Indies: questions remain

Connor Myers, Online Sport Editor,

NGLAND'S white ball tour of the West Indies came to a close with somewhat of a whimper. Five overs in, the Darren Sammy Cricket Ground was hit by a storm, prohibiting any further play, leaving the fifth and final T20 match resultless. It meant that the still-coachless England claimed the T20 portion of the tour 3-1, with the West Indies having taken the earlier ODI series 2-1. The T20 series was undoubtably a success. Interim coach Marcus Trescothick said he was delight ed with the ‘perfect’ progress the team had made. Phil Salt continued to prove that playing in the Caribbean brings out the best of him, scoring his third T20I century in just the West Indies alone in the first match. Saqib Mahmood also showed

his importance to the team, taking the most wickets with nine across the series.

Debutants Dan Mousley and Exeter alumni John Turner were also among the wickets. Turner recovered from a shaky start in the fourth match to halt the innings of West Indies captain Rovman Powell for his first T20 international wicket.

After reaching the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup earlier this year, England proved in the Caribbean that, with white ball in hand, it’s the shortest format where they excel. But England’s performance in ODI cricket still leaves a lot to be desired.

While the crowbarring of this tour in-between England’s test series loss to Pakistan and the upcoming test series in New Zealand meant that players that would normally occupy

details England's multi-format cricket tour in the West Indies

spots in England’s best XI were unavailable, England were unable to show they have moved on or developed from the team that exited their ODI World Cup defence last year in the pool stage. Without stars Ben Duckett or Harry Brook, along with Jos Buttler still recovering from injury, it was Liam Livingstone who captained the new-look England team. Turner and Mousley made their ODI debuts as well, along with Jordan Cox and Jamie Overton. Livingstone’s ability to be unphased by the captaincy was arguably the highlight of the tour for England, scoring 178 runs across the three-match series, including his first ODI century. The debutant bowlers also performed well, with Turner showing he has a bright future in the England set up, being the pick of the bowlers in the second match.

Yet the debutant batters raised questions about England’s view on

the ODI format. Newer players like Cox and Jacob Bethell lacked rhythm and flow in their innings, and Overton was trapped LBW first ball as specialist No.8 batsman. Mousley walked out to bat on debut and told Sam Curran in the middle he "didn’t really know what he was doing."

It's true that there are no slots in the England schedule to allow players to get domestic 50 over games under their belt. And as both test match

and T20 cricket evolve, what international 50 over cricket even is anymore is becoming unclear. In Sir Alastair Cook’s postmortem of the series loss, he said the ECB "need to decide how important 50-over cricket is."

From January, test-match coach Brendon McCullum will assume leadership of the white-ball set up too. It’ll be hoped he can shake up the side and its attitude in the same way he did for the test team.

Captaincy was arguably the highlight of the tour

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Sport

Rising stars shine in UEFA Nations League

ESTABLISHED in autumn

2018, the Nations League was launched by Europe’s footballing body, UEFA. This followed part of their plan to reduce insignificant international friendlies from taking place and “answered the associations’ call for an increase in more competitive and meaningful matches.” Although similarly named, this is not the same competition as the UEFA European Championships, which takes place every four years. It also takes on a completely different format to that of the Euros, making it even more unique.

54 countries take part in this fourleague competition, 16 of which are allocated into separate groups labelled A-D based on performance in qualifiers. Leagues are then split into four groups, where the teams play six games each. The Nations League has taken place every two years since its foundation and has become a staple slot in the European footballing calendar.

they narrowly beat the Spanish 2-1. It was not long before Spain could get their redemption however, as the 2022-23 trophy became theirs after they overcame the Croatians, beating them 5-4 on penalties. In hindsight, this victory highlighted the increasing threat of ‘La Roja’, eventually one-upped by their Euro 2024 win.

Portugal secured the inaugural Nations League trophy following a 1-0 victory against the Netherlands. Succeeding this, France also took home the trophy in 2020 as

The Nations League acts as a relatively futile competition for the better performing sides in Europe, with controversy surrounding players withdrawing from the squad to avoid risking injury. This is understandable, however, especially for a side in England’s position where they are not even competing in the top league of the tournament. This current break in domestic football is the third one of the 2024/2025 season so far, despite only 11 matches being played in the Premier League. It is easy to sympathise with the feelings of fans just wanting to watch constant league football action.

Before the November international break had even begun, eight players withdrew from the squad over ‘injury concerns.’ Harry Kane recently criticised those that have pulled

out of the fixtures, stating in a press conference that “England comes before anything and any club situation.” It leaves a tricky situation for those wanting to make an impression for the incoming team boss Thomas Tuchel, while also managing the volume of games played in a season.

In contrast to this, the competition does provide a platform for typically less successful teams to compete internationally. Teams finally have the chance to play opponents of a similar level, encouraging players to represent their national team. It has even given us football fans a once in a lifetime moment (with no disrespect) to see San Marino end the longest winless run football has ever seen with a 1-0 win against Liechtenstein. Unbelievably it was their second only ever win and had lost 196 out of their 206 competitive games as a nation prior to this. As I am writing this, they have just secured another historic win, thrashing Liechtenstein 3-1 and earning themselves promotion to League C.

So far, the competition has proved as a fantastic opportunity for rising stars to break through into the first team. Rico Lewis has been a notable example of this sort of inclusion, starting in five of England’s games in Group Two. Given that he only made one appearance in this summer’s Euro’, the Nations League has been perfect for supporting his growth into the side. 22-year-old Southampton centre back Taylor

Harwood-Bellis even managed to nod home a goal in his international debut, demonstrating the life-changing chances this tournament provides.

A fantastic opportunity for rising stars to break through

The Three Lions are currently sitting in Group B, after failing to qualify for League A. This followed their relegation from the latter league after falling short against Italy in 2022, placing them bottom of their group.

Underwhelming by England’s footballing standards, interim coach, Lee Carsley, has aimed to steer the side into the automatic promotion spots.

Defeat against Greece in matchday three seemed to have thrown a spanner in the works for Carsley’s men,

putting England’s chances of promotion in jeopardy. Despite this setback, the decisive 5-0 victory over Ireland in the last game of the group determined England as group winners. Thankfully, this secured them promotion to League A, promising to bring more high-profile fixtures to Wembley Stadium next time around. Crucially, this aids Thomas Tuchel helping a smooth transition into the national side, with his first game now likely being a low-pressure international friendly.

The Nations League may be surrounded with controversy regarding the necessity of the games, as well as the interruptions it causes. However, moments of footballing magic and the replacement of otherwise pointless international friendlies has surely signified just how influential the competition has been in its short duration.

SPORT EDITORS:

Eloise Grainger

Ben Scott

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Fabian Karssens

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