Cambridge University announces review into Jason Arday's death

Cambridge University's launched an independent review into its own decision-making and actions following the death of one of its professors.

Professor Jason Arday was found dead in his London flat, after allegations of plagiarism which he denied

The University's Council says the review will focus on identifying where it fell short.

Nazir Afzal OBE, former Chief Crown Prosecutor for North West England, has agreed to lead Part One. He brings extensive experience leading complex independent reviews, as well as a deep understanding of the higher education sector through his role as Chancellor of The University of Manchester.

Mr Afzal said: “I am honoured to have been asked to lead Part One of this important independent review. At its heart is a person, a family and a community who have been profoundly affected by Professor Arday's death. It is important that we approach this work with both rigour and humanity.

“My responsibility will be to listen carefully, examine the evidence thoroughly and understand what support, interventions and protections were available to Professor Arday in the period before his death. We must be willing to ask difficult questions, including whether more could and should have been done.

“This work will be conducted independently and with urgency.”