Buckingham

Possible mistreatment of James Tooley, and the risk to the University of Buckingham’s reputation

(05.11.24) We have written to Mr Mark Qualter (Chair of the Council) and other members of the Council regarding the mistreatment of Professor James Tooley. Tooley was suspended following allegations from his estranged wife; the only currently known allegation, that he kept an unlicenced firearm at home, had apparently turned out to be untrue before his suspension was even announced.

The precipitate-seeming actions of the Council, and the motivations for his suspension and its announcement, have been the subject of intense public speculation. The University has since announced an independent investigation into the issue, although whether the behaviour of the University is part of its scope is unclear: it should be.

We have highlighted several questions regarding potential legal and regulatory issues facing the University and members of its Council depending on the facts.

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