Mundell apologises for liberation jibe

EUSA president candidate Oliver Mundell has apologised for alledegedly reducing a disabled NUS liberation officer to tears.

“I understand that liberation is a sensitive issue but I have always tried to keep my own personal emotions out of decision making, putting the needs of students first," Mr Mundell said.

"I’m really sorry if my point of view has been upsetting or misinterpreted but, rather than engaging in petty NUS politics, I’m moving forward with my plans to make EUSA more representative.”

Mr Mundell is adamant, however, that any offence caused was unintentional.

Speaking to The Journal, he said: “Throughout my time in student politics I have always found it is best to open and honest about what you stand for.

"I have consistently argued that the token liberation that NUS offers is a distraction from the real issues that affect the very students these positions are designed to help."

After impaling his foot on a fence in George Square in the early hours of Monday 9 February, Mr Mundell is now recovering from reconstructive surgery on his foot, and will spend the remainder of his campaign in a mobility scooter.

The 19 year old son of Conservative MP David Mundell, slipped on a metal spike whilst attempting to climb over the fence and join his friends on a patch on freshly-fallen snow.

Two fire engines were called to the scene, and seven fireman took fifteen minutes to cut Mundell free. But despite the accident, Mr Mundell is refusing to let the incident affect his election campaign.

“I don't really see the accident as a setback as I have a great team of students behind me putting in the leg work, who think I have the ideas and passion to make a difference. I still hope to speak to most students, if a little slower than before!," he said.

“If anything, I found people are more inclined to speak to me, as they see me putting in the extra effort.”

Speaking to The Journal, Mr Mundell made clear his wish to focus solely on his campaign without allowing his temporary disability to become a political football in the election campaign.

“On the positive side my accident has made me arguably the best known candidate in this election, but that doesn’t necessarily translate into votes. What is important now is to get my positive agenda and ideas like my director of studies-led feedback scheme and plans for cheaper university accommodation out there.

“Right now I’d ask students to be proactive and contact me via my website www.olivermundell.com with any ideas or questions they have.”