Cardiff student paper prints Mohammed cartoons
The University of Cardiff 's student newspaper Gair Rhydd has become the first UK publication to publish one of the 12 now infamous Mohammed cartoons, first published in the Danish newspaper Jyllands-Posten.
The student rag, which has a readership of about 21,000, was hastily pulled in the face of fierce complaints. A member of the paper's editorial team confirmed the edition had been pulped "for obvious reasons". But, at least 200 copies had already been distributed.
Gair Rhydd published an "informative piece" on the cartoons along with one of the caricatures of the prophet of Islam. The caricatures have caused considerable outrage in the Muslim community, with protests around the world and recently in London.
Cardiff University's Student Union released a statement saying, "The opinions expressed in Gair Rhydd are those of the editorial team, independently of the Students' Union or University. The Students' Union very much regrets any upset caused or disrespect shown by the publication of the controversial cartoons". The statement also said that the editor and three student journalists had been suspended and an investigation into the publication was underway.
Winner of numerous awards, including newspaper of the year at the 2005 Guardian Student Media Awards, it will now be effectively shut down for the time being. The university is currently besieged by the press and police are concerned that the tense atmosphere could escalate. This is obviously a warning to any other papers, student or otherwise, wishing to express their right to free speech.
