Pentagon funds University research into arms trade
The University’s Computer Science Department has been awarded a controversial research grant of up to $2.6 million by the American and British militaries.
Amidst fierce criticism from student groups, the department will participate in a ten-year programme involving 25 companies in America and Britain, with a total budget of $135 million..
Researchers at York, led by Professor John McDermid, have received funding to co-ordinate work in the UK and the US on security systems.
The department will examine new approaches to computer security and explore advanced technology for secure wireless and sensor networks to support future coalition operations.
Professor McDermid said “the programme will draw skills from both sides of the Atlantic to make a difference in the way defence systems are deigned, implemented and operated”.
Elinor Rooks, a member of the No Share in Killing Campaign, which has pressurised the University to commit to an ethnical investment policy, said “the duplicity of the university’s position is shocking: with the right hand it forms an ethical investment working group; while with the left hand it substantially increases ties with the arms industry and the UK and US militaries.”
Student Union President, Rich Croker has taken a more moderate stance: “If the investment and circumstances of the research are in contravention of SU policy we will take appropriate action.
“However, the research could enhance the communications and security networks for Britain and our forces abroad”.
Professor McDermid denied the research was unethical. On his behalf David Garner, the University Press Officer said “The research is concerned with increasing security and safety of the Armed Forces, often operating as peacekeepers, in conflict zones — and those who may be affected by their actions.
“Regardless of one’s views on UK and US foreign policy, it is ethically justified to explore ways of improving safety and security”.
The University has faced criticism before over unethical practises.
People and Planet, Amnesty, Freesoc and Student Action for Palestine staged a “die-in” and collected over 1000 signatures last term to protest at the University holding over 100,000 shares in the controversial arms company BAE systems.
The protest led to the creation of a University working group of students and staff to work towards gaining an ethical investment policy.
By Jamie Merrill
NEWS CORRESPONDENT
