A member of staff commenting publicly on a public issue other than in a professional or expert capacity should do so from her or his private address and should not use the name or the letterhead of the University, or otherwise identify herself or himself as a member of the staff of the University.

Only persons authorised by the Senate or the Vice Chancellor may make public statements on behalf of the University.  Use of the University name or logo outside the University other than to identify the designation of the staff member acting in her or his work capacity, requires approval of the Vice Chancellor.

A member of staff writing or speaking publicly in a professional or expert capacity may identify herself or himself by her or his University appointment or qualifications and may for that purpose use the name of the University. Staff will maintain professional standards when they associate themselves with the University's name in public statements.

Staff commenting publicly in a professional or expert capacity should indicate, when appropriate, that their opinions may not reflect the views of the University.

Reference to this policy will be included in induction programmes for all new staff members.

Any member of staff who is unsure about whether or not his or her planned public comment meets the policy should seek the advice of their Administrative Head.

Authorised: Senate Resolution 81/Oct 97
(Revised March 1999)