19.53

Chad Wilkinson, sorry you feel this way, but we have been following the transcript posted beside the stage carefully. No misquoting. Not out of context journalism. There was booing, we’re afraid

19.47

Well. That was a bit of an anti-climax. News story going up shortly. Thanks to everyone who has been following on here and twitter. Charlie, you led a remarkable campaign!

19.46

Charlie lost by an unbelievable nine votes

19.45

Charlie has come second to Usman Ali in a remarkably close election. 50 votes transferred to him. 25 to Charlie

19.44

Charlie is 16 votes ahead OH MY GOODNESS THIS IS SO TENSE

19.43

15 votes been transferred to Charlie – Charlie is four ahead!!!!!!

19.42

515 ballots, 258 needed

19.41

It has gone through all stages

19.33

Why don’t YOU retweet? This Union needs YOU

19.32

YUSU President has just re-tweeted Chris Young’s Nouse tweet. My life is now complete. And I am also a poet, apparently.

19.29

Why can’t you lot comment on the blog rather than just being silly on twitter now? Be responsible. Like us

19.29

YES SAM DANIELS! Thanks for the tweet

19.28

Ben Gascoyne is loving this slightly camp, MOR music. He is boogying away. It’s a bit embarassing

19.28

Tom from Vision has just challenged me to a dance off, on the empty stage. Well, I did want to get us on camera as some point. Would have been a real two tribes go to war…

19.25

What the fudge is this music?

19.25

We have just absolutely owned the NUS twitter board.

Chris Young just tweeted NOUSE NOUSE NOUSE NOUSE and Ben Humphrys re-tweeted it!!! Love you Ben. Hope you are feeling better

19.21

We weren’t allowed the banner. We’re going for a twitter monopoly

19.21

We are dominating the board. Let’s break the system. MUHAHAHAHA

19.19

I tweeted twice. Get me. I was on there TWICE. Almost a celeb

19.17

OOO epic music is back. And twitter. Watch out for us on twitterfall

19.16

165 ballot papers received.

140 for Shane Chowen – he wins Further Education

19.15

ELECTION COMMITTEEEEEE ANNOUNCEMENT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

19.08

Amendment passes wheyyy!

19.07

Lots of shouting about anti-Semitism… oo-errr

406b now. Effective anti-fascist propaganda must emphasise the distinctive nature of fascism and address the racism upon which fascists organisations thrive.

Bloke from Durham Union speaking now. Implores to support motion.

Anyone AGAINST the amendment? That bloke was meant to be speaking against but didn’t. Bit naughty.

Speaker against the motion: “Before I get booed, before I get shouted off, I am not a racist… but I don’t think we need to work with Unite against fascism… The no-platform against fascism is limiting free speech.”

Boos from the crowd.

18.59

Check out the Beeb’s coverage

18.57

Wes Streeting looks, dresses, acts and talks just like Tommy Flynn! Do people agree?

18.57

Coming up next is Motion 406. It wants to recognise the need to fight those awful racists and wants student activists to get active in doing so. Everyone claps. 406a is a bit more controversial and is discussing the Iraq War protests and responding to it, accusing the NUS leadership of wanting you to “forget about Afghani civilians”. Accusing an individual NUS exec member of protecting Labour it asks for strong links to Stop The War Coalition. Wes Streeting takes to the stage to oppose that. He gets all shouty, and gets defensive about his record. Clapping.

18.53

This next motion is all about housing and neighbourhoods for students. People for this motion want to get students involved as councillors and just in general community positions in order to improve neighbourhoods through a national campaign. Nobody is against it, since other than the strikingly obvious observation that “students are people”, it’s all reasonable. Everyone votes for it, vunderbar.

18.43

And for the vote – it isn’t close at all. It’s passed and the NUS will lobby to make changes to the National, Westminster election voting system. Are these people in such a bubble that they have no room for debate at all?

18.41

The speech against the motion cites the disadvantages of STV, the system that the motion says would be better. He says that in Northern Ireland, the change of electoral voting system hasn’t brought about higher turnout, and that doing this in Britain wouldn’t encourage those that don’t vote to vote.

18.39

Too big for their boots I say. The NUS should be concentrating on the big issues relevant to students, not trying to creating major electoral change within the very institutions of British politics.

18.38

The next motion is about electoral reform. Natasha from UEA says that students “aren’t apathetic”, but yet “many won’t be voting because they are disenchanted.” The motion would resolve to work with the vote for change coalition for a referendum on electoral reform, believing the two party system encourages voter disenchantment.

18.36

“Any political party serious about helping young people must put votes at 16 at the heart of their policies for young people. If you can get married and die for your country, you have a right to vote.” Amongst all that was alot of tory bashing, apparently the only party that doesn’t support votes at 16.

The motion passes quite heavily and the NUS will now lobby political parties to get votes at 16 on the agenda at the general election.

18.33

And now a speech against the motion – he strides onto the stage.

“There are a lot of 16 year olds out there that aren’t mature enough to vote who might vote for the wrong things.” He went on to say that “if we make a test that all have to pass before voting, we may be able to have voting at 16″. Met by gasps from the delegates!

18.33

Ben and Laura think this is a ridiculous motion. Voting is such a mature action, often you think you are capable of knowing your own political affiliation at the age of 16, but… you’re not

18.32

Motion 401 is about votes at 16. “You can join the army, have kids, pay taxes, but without representation. By giving 16 year olds the vote, politicians would have to take young people seriously.” Quite a big applause to get people the vote at 16.

18.28

Tim Ngwena has joined us on the balcony. “I’m not meant to be up here! I’m meant to be down there!” he told us excitedly. He seems to think that Charlie is confident which is good news.

18.26

And finally that’s over. The report has been unanimously voted to be accepted by the delegates. Now back to some motions and hopefully some heated debate!

18.23

Society and citizenship had no time at conference last year and apparently that’s “disgraceful”. Susan said that “it wasn’t the kind of fruitful discussions that you would have on conference floor… Next year it (soc and citizenship) should be higher up the priority ballot… as it deserves”.

18.21

Susan keeps mentioning working with the votes at 16 campaign. “We need to have better ways in which students can feed in at the local authority level and be able to access their local representatives more effectively.” Personally, not so convinced.

18.19

Special shout out to previous Nouse Technical Director, Chris Northwood, who has mentioned us on twitter.

Thank you for your technical knowledge and happy you are enjoying the blog!

18.19

The group has, amongst other things, been running activities to encorouge student voter participation, not only in national elections but local as well. The general election is just the beginning though. Students have to hold their MPs to account and turn up and question them. “Sure you might have used your vote, but what else have you done to become more involved?”

18.16

Other society and citizenship issues that have been tackled this year are those of the broad topic of global justice. “We’ve helped raise the profile of those in Swaziland” the Susan Nash, VP of Society and Citizenship, proudly announces. Now for question time from the floor.

18.12

Ok, now a presentation from the society and citizenship committee. Apparently doing this on the second day of conference doesn’t happen every year so well done you guys. The work the group has done this year is extensive, and the lady on the stage is flying through everything. They include applying for money to support community initiatives and enhancing community representation in FE. They’ve also dealt with environmental issues such as ethical banking, a student switch off campaign, a go green week, expanding criteria in the sound impact awards, and action based research.

18.12

Nick Scarlett voting for NUS Vice-President

Courtesy of Tom Flynn

18.10

I have an exclusive interview with new NUS President Aaron Porter

Keep posted

18.09

The Leyland campaign team

18.06

YAYYY we are back! Sorry about that – terrible internet connection.

Looks like cheeky Gascoyne has been blogging from his phone in the corridor. Go Ben!

In other news, I bumped into the epic Leyland campaign team earlier. Charlie seemed very very happy and pleased and had a huge love heart on her cheek. She said she is happy with her speech and her performance and is still confident.

Tom Flynn was a bit disappointed that she didn’t manage to finish the whole thing due to interruptions in applause. It was still fab. GO CHARLIE!

18.06

We bumped into NUS President Elect Aaron Porter a little earlier, and had a chat with him, the story of which you will see very soon

18.05

Ever so sorry for the technical issues, but I think we’re back online now! The conference has just finished voting on motions regarding society and citizenship, so you’ve missed some really exciting stuff.

17.55

That cheeky Usman has been flyering in the voting queue say Charlie’s people, as the last 30 minutes of polling commence.

17.51

We are terribly sorry but the internet has given up in The Sage. Updates may be slow, expect Leyland’s result between 7 and 7.30 though.

17.48

A quick update from elsewhere, our bloggers no longer have internet, will post a message when they’re back online!

16.43

Just fallen over, twice, trying to get picture of Ben and Chris. They weren’t very sympathetic. Ben: “Laura, you are just a disaster today.” Still, I got my picture. Now my Blackberry won’t let me upload it. General disaster.

The tweets seem to like Charlie: “She is quite fit ain’t she?”

All of our tweets got up on screen! Yay!

16.30

That’s all the speeches for VP of HE – the delegates have gone off to vote. We’ll let you know what the results are when we hear them and keep you updated on any gossip.

16.30

According to Jim Bulley and Student Activities Officer Rhianna Kinchin, Usman Ali is the big competition…

16.28

Spotted: someone in the audience, asleep. Poor show Lancaster.

16.28

“I do not wear a badge of the NEC, but I believe that as a member of the national union, we are mature enough to know experience comes in many forms… I wear a badge of pride though. Pride in student talents and what I led students to achieve and pride in the students union and national union… Banning reactionary in an uncertain time won’t do. We must set out the vision that refocuses responsibility into the hands of local heroes… We need clarity and the ability to take our vision forward.”

16.24

Michael Payne from Lancaster now, the final candidate I think. “HE is in flux… We need to put these debates at the front of the government priorities.”

16.23

Roses all over again! Michael Payne, our current speaking candidate for VP HE,6 is from Lancaster Uni.

16.23

“I will produce a report so all Unions know what to do to widen participation. We must engage with the activists on the ground, with dedicated training and great resources for representatives. Vote for me, and defend the future of HE.” Again, polite applause, but no one standing up like they were for Charlie.

16.21

He’s delivered on promises in the past, and will do again. “Those that know me know that I am a person of action. I started as a FE officer and ran firstly against racism. People have stood here before and talked about a silent majority. I was a member of that… That’s why I have gone face to face to protest against the English Defence League.”

16.20

Keep the comments coming please – what do people think of Charlie’s speech?

16.19

Lewis told us that we are one of the top hits on Google for NUS Conference 2010. Yay.

16.18

Emmanuel next from the LSE. “The future of HE is under attack” he begins. “In economics there are winners and losers. In HE, there should only be winners.”

16.17

Plenty of applause for Leyland’s big points.

16.17

Charlie’s speech, exclusively for Nouse:

“It’s been a busy year for the NUS, for officers, for students, for policy makers and institutions. The stage is set. We wait for a new cast to be assembled and for the curtain to rise. Twenty-ten will surely be a defining year for our movement, here and now we must provide the storyline and direction for the drama that is the Higher Education sector.

Conference. Hello. My name is Charlie Leyland, and I’m standing to be your next Vice President for Higher Education. Your Vice President for practical solutions and for action.

I haven’t parachuted in to make a name for myself, or to hold onto something I can’t let go of: running for this position is part of who I am.

I’ve been on the Academic Affairs picket line for the past two years, leading within my own union and advocating on behalf of those let down by the system. I’ve been scrutinizing structures, challenging senior policy makers, working with your education officers and learning about what needs to be done.

But more than this. Representing students at York has taught me the power of the student voice; that advocacy, argument and ultimately action, can lead to real change. And I’ve met too many great people with too many shocking stories for this not to become personal.

<< Fairer Funding >>

Underpinning every decision we make must be the fight for fairer funding and widening access.

For far too long our campaigns have spoken only to those already involved in the fight: where the message of our campaigns has been lost somewhere in translation.

I will lead an inclusive campaign. To win the argument that a fairly funded Higher Education system benefits all of society, we must engage with each and every citizen.

I will lead an educative campaign to reform the funding system that so many of our students rely on, running an NUS roadshow around schools, colleges and wider communities to bring our message into halls, high streets and living rooms.

And I will lead an explosive campaign to fight the cuts wherever they occur, giving my full support to unions, and putting pressure on individual MPs to sign the pledge opposing any increase to top up fees. We need to make sure that MPs, especially those with large student numbers in their constituencies, are aware of the consequences if they turn a blind eye.

<< Empowering Student Networks >>

Our members, more than anything, must drive our movement. Students are heard best when we speak with one voice, but these arguments must be informed by the diversity of our experiences. NUS needs to do more to empower *all* of our student networks.

Why then, have we not made better use of technology?

I will start by introducing an online Higher Education Knowledge Base. A dedicated space with interactive material, where you can download and upload resources, debate with others on a forum, and engage in polling to make Higher Education a truly collaborative campaign.

Why then, are most students still confused as to what NUS does?

I will record a weekly video blog on Higher Education that is accessible to both Officers and students alike. I will make my Google calendar publicly available, and institute a simple labelling system for the reasons for visits I make to which Unions, so you know what I’m doing for you.

Transparency and openness are essential for an effective democratic organisation.

<< QA and Student Experience >>

At the same time, we need to give Union officers more effective tools to improve the lives of students at their own institutions themselves. From lecture theatres to libraries, from admissions to assessment methods, our role must be to help our students safeguard standards and drive positive change in unresponsive institutions.

Having built a course rep network from scratch at York. Having sat on University review panels for Departments placed in the bottom quarter of the NSS. Having spent a year as a QAA student auditor: I know first hand the problems that Officers face.

It is time NUS created and published a framework for student involvement in internal quality assurance mechanisms. We need to set minimum standards for non-negotiable areas to defend and extend student rights.

And it’s time NUS used the National Student Survey rubric to help facilitate the sharing of best practice across Unions. What happens in York or Birkbeck, might help an Officer in Sheffield or Dundee win the argument they need to win in their own University meeting.

<< NUS for All >>

Finally, whilst with our size comes our strength, the NUS has often ignored smaller, more specialist sections of our membership. Our national union must do more to fully engage with all members.

We must know more about atypical courses, like nursing.

We must offer more support to officers on complex issues like equal rights legislation, where discrimination in our lecture theatres still happens each and every day.

We must engage more fully with part-time, postgrad, and lifelong learners. And we must better understand the needs of HE in FE and international students.

NUS needs to be an organisation where all students feel part of the national movement. Irrespective of location, method, or place of study.

Student politics is too often dismissed as a domain dominated by personal agendas: where policies come second to CVs.

Not. With. Me.

I’m not the kind of person that makes promises that I can’t deliver.

A course rep system from scratch? Delivered.

24 hour library with student parent facilities? Delivered

£750,000 on key texts. Free dyslexia screening trials. A minimum feedback turn around time. A review of the supervisory system. A brand new union advice and support centre? All promised. All delivered.

With me, no issue gets lefts behind, no opinion, no student, no union.

So when voting opens, put Charlie Leyland at the top of the ballot, and elect me your next Vice President for Higher Education.”

She didn’t get to finish… although almost.

16.16

People seem pretty fixed on what she’s saying, and Charlie’s speaking very confidently. She’s getting on with the speech, and when there’s applause, not waiting for it to finish. Not in a rude way though. She’s speaking well.

16.15

Charlie is not threatening like the previous candidate but more about improving. Offering transparency and tools for SUs.

16.13

Charlie up now, she seems confident. It’s a very speechy speech so far. She was met with good, solid applause when she came to stage so it’s going well so far. “I’ve met too many great people with too many shocking stories for this not to become personal.” She’s getting heated now – definitely passionate.

16.12

“I am not about slonganising or empty rhetocis, there are insufficient. I have called for national demonstrations, student occupations, all of which have actually won. Vote for a fighter, activist, international student, post grad who is principle in strategy but flexible in tactics. We want to fight the cuts together. Vote for Mark, vote for democratic students union.”

16.12

Some people are going nuts for Mark. Now Charlie.

16.10

“You don’t shove a wheelbarrow by going inside it – you push it.” Fair enough. “I have looked to students in Greece, Austria, France and Germany and they’re fighting for free education. We need a change in direction. Our students need a strong democratic union, a strong union is one that fights for every issue. We are fighting for a free HE for all.”

16.10

Burgfield makes a big gesture towards Pres Elect Porter.

16.07

Kit: “The results of this battle will change the face of higher education altogether.” He finished in time and was met with warm applause.

16.07

No standing ovation for Kit but plenty of applause.

16.07

Next up, Mark Burgfield. “We are facing the biggest attack on our education in 60 years. How can we have gone from education education education to cuts cuts cuts?”

16.05

Kit’s experiences are apparently the same of students all over the country. “Subject networks are a great way to empower students and officers to act nationally to what matters most – education. As a course rep and officer, I have supported NUS’s fight for a fairer funding system. There is only one candidate that has proved that they can engage with the heard of government with all parties and that is me.”

16.05

Kit wants to get all the parties involved with the NUS, not just Labour.

16.04

Kit is annoyed about unpaid interns.

16.03

The next competitor is Kit. “I will fight for fair funding, but I will also fight for the right of marginalised groups from part timers to student parents,” he begins.

16.01

Ali then reeled off a list of Unis that he’d campaigned alongside, and to be fair, it was a pretty long list. “Do you want a VP that knows your campus? With a proven track record of mobilising students? Of turning policy into practice? This comes down to a fundamental choice.” What that choice is we shall never know. Ali was cut off during his speech as he ran out of time.

16.00

He reels off a list of places he’s campaigned at, and it’s quite long.

15.59

“The time for concrete campaigning is firmly on our doorstep” he continues. “I think it is time for the NUS’s HE campaign to fight for the bread and butter of student life. Our HE campaign needs to be more meaningful to more than just a few euqailty geeks.”

15.57

Nick Scarlett, acting NUS delegate, is sat alone in the stalls surrounded by a very rowdy crowd. Looks a bit nervous, stroking chin. He said earlier, by the way, during this mini hiatus before CHARLIE LEYLAND TAKES THE STAGE, “I like the building. Think the food is too pricey so I had to go to Greggs for breakfast. As for NUS, I think affiliation is better than non-affiliation. I am not impressed with organisation though and the way votes are ‘counted’.”

15.57

First candidate receives a lot of applause. He’s Usman, who’s marketing himself as Us-man. He’s arguing the next year is a huge choice for universities and they must move “past rhetoric and into reality”. Students “should never be reduced to a commodity”.

15.57

Charlie’s first competitor is Usman Ali. “Do you want an HE system on the ability to learn or the ability to pay?” he starts. “Flexible learning has to move into reality. My answers to these questions are the same as yours. Education is a right for anyone with the ability and aspiration. It should never be reduced to a simple commodity where customers are passively asked for their opinion.”

15.54

Higher Education candidates up now, including the University of York’s Charlie Leyland.

15.53

She feels that candidates need to be able to “walk the walk” as well as “talk the talk”. Well, she can’t seem to do the latter very well…

15.53

“Conference, I understand that you must know a candidate can walk the walk. As an Equal Opportunities officer, I have an in-depth knowledge of the range of students and was extended as head of liberation campaigns.” Nikita was then interrupted and ran out of time. Let’s hope it doesn’t cost her when it comes to the ballot box.

15.51

O dear this girl is very stuttery

15.51

The speech is being interrupted by applause every so often, perhaps the reason why it feels like a quite rushed speech. “The NUS must resist attempts to cut the EMA and defend it to cover costs for all students and not just the essentials. We should put education before war and bank bailouts. This discussion is pointless without strong FE unions across the country.” She’s obviously getting nervous now – just had a huge 7 or 8 second pause.

15.51

She can’t surely be a viable competitor?

15.49

I think Tom from Vision has had a haircut? Can you confirm Tom? The Easter holidays are certainly the time for such changes, it seems

15.49

Suspect Shane Chowen, as the incumbent, will probably win this one.

15.48

The nasty men from the Pebble are harassing Ben for Tic-Tacs! Leave. Us. Alone.

15.48

The next VP for FE is Nikita. “I stand based on my track record” she says. Let’s see what that is.

15.47

“How can a tory admin say that vocational gcses should be scrapped or not get ucas points? I want to work with you to defend our members right to study what they want and when. Reelect me for a national choice campaign. This will call for parity of esteem between academic and vocational students. Equal opportunities and treatment for our students”. Standing ovation.

15.45

My midnight viewing of In Her Shoes keeps appearing on my silly crappy computer. Should have got a mac like Youngsy, clearly. Cameron Diaz’s shrill tones keep interrupting Shane’s speech!

15.44

Further Education Vice President up now. The first candidate, Shane Chowen, steps up to the podium. He has a big rallying run and attack on those who would criticise working to protect against cuts which draws cheers from the crowd.

15.44

First of the speeches is from Shane. He says he’s done what he said and he can do it again – “I’m only just getting started”.

“Every delegate who talked about standing should to should with lectures, I was there. If you want to come up here to tell me how to campaign, where were you?” Pretty aggressive talking. “No matter who you are, re elect me with a very clear policy. FE is not a Cinderella sector. FE is where lives are changed and where social mobility takes place and it will be defended.”

15.43

We have been sent Charlie’s speech, all set to go up after she has spoken.

Looks very impressive

15.42

Mexican wave from the NEC on stage now

15.40

Just waiting for all the candidates now – rumour is that no one can find our Charlie! Surely not!

15.39

Tom from Vision says hi

15.39

This is all what we’ve been waiting for – Hustings for the Vice President of Higher Education and VP of Further Education. York’s very own academic officer, Charlie Leyland, is running for the former of the two. Good luck Charlie!

15.36

Aaron Porter gets everyone chanting “we love HE”, ostensibly for the Times Higher Education magazine. Or for some kind of cult indoctrination, who knows?

15.35

Jaffa cakes: are they cake or biscuit?

Most vote cake, but it has become “controversial”. It is in fact a biscuit! What qualifies as a cake? Perhaps foodie Editor Charlotte-Hogarth Jones could tell us…

15.34

YUSU Pres Tim Ngwena fails to vote on a joke motion for cake or biscuits.

15.32

Charlie is on the stage…

15.32

A photo opportunity now before the Vice Presidential election hustings. Candidates lining up but delegates looking restless.

15.31

And now for the vote. And a strong vote against amendment c of motion 503 on union development. Glad we chatted that one out.

15.30

Someone called John from the NEC to speak against the amendment now. “It is completely blind to the world that this is happening in FE at the moment. This is removing the ability to involve adult learners to recognise students unions this their strategies not autonomy from the colleges. This is completely blind, vote down this amendment.” Pretty strong stuff – hope the executive committee isn’t trying to force its will on the delegates….

15.30

Despite the fact he is a Labour Party member, Aaron Porter was not considered a particularly left wing candidate but would clash with a Labour government if it meant opposing any further rise in tuition fees according to the Guardian. Meanwhile the current chair of the debate is giving the crowd a bit of banter to entertain.

15.28

Two gentlemen next to me snickering about the rhetoric. Have a sneaky suspicion that they are the guys from the Pebble… o sorry the Verse… or whatever…

15.26

“A bad workman always blames his tools,” says one delegate from Bath. Rousing approval.

15.25

The hall looks pretty full post-lunch, almost as full as it was during the presidential speeches.

15.25

Delegate from UEL just discussed how many students don’t even know what Conference is and that Unions need to do noisier campaigning.

15.24

Amendment of motion 503 specifically believes that “a Union is not a body that acts on behalf of its members, but a vehicle through which its members can take collective action”. In a speech against this amendment, the delegate believes that Unions shouldn’t be run by the cliques but get the whole student population involved as a whole. So far, there have been two speeches for and two against, so quite a controversial amendment compared to some debates today.

15.22

So just to update everyone, issues currently being discuss are regarding Union Development. The specific motion being discussed is motion 503 amendment c. The motion is regarding participation and engagement, the original of which resolves to do a number of things, including better education in participating in students’ unions and lobbying graduate recruiters highlighting the positive effect that students’ union activities have on students’ future employability.

15.18

Aaron Poter’s twitter: “delighted to have been elected the new President of NUS”

15.17

Some controversy as a motion on employability is opposed from the floor. “How dare you speak out against Christina!” Drama.

15.12

Just bumped into Lewis Bretts and Matt Burton. The should be giving us a copy of Charlie’s speech before she takes the stage – keep posted. Jamie Tyler was wearing an unprecedented amount of Leyland stickers. He looked cool

15.11

Porter won the Presidency quite handily, but his closest rival got the largest vote for a left winger in a while.

15.11

On this lovely sunny day Newcastle is very impressive! The river, on which The Sage sits, looks almost like something from Europe. Almost

15.09

Afternoon all! Our technical problems are fixed and we’re finally back on track!

The result for President of the NUS came in over lunchtime and the winner was Aaron Porter with 65pc of the vote – that’s 440 votes. Bell Ribeiro-Addy came second with 20pc.

13.02

Is this it? Yes, for now, it’s…

13.02

Lunch now! We’re gonna try and fix our technical problems over lunch, so we’ll be back at about 2:30 with a fully working live blog hopefully! Toodles for now.

12.58

Presidential Ballot now closed – the results are now being counted in the room next door! Results up here as soon as we have them. It’s also been announced that the Vice President hustings, which York’s very own Charlie Leyland is running for, will be taking place at 15:35, 20 minutes earlier than before. Take note Charlie and turn up on time!

12.56

There’s now a motion to send two motions straight to an executive committee to discuss because we’re running out of time! The NEC don’t seem keen on taking this though, saying they want the student population to make the decision themselves. Unsurprisingly, the students agree – they want their say!

12.56

We endeavour to do a Tom Scott and get on camera today! Despite not being allowed in the stalls… We will have to think of some cunning, inventive measures. Watch this space

12.54

Watch the conference live from the NUS website

12.51

We are having technical problems, but you’ve probably noticed. If you follow the top few posts it should make sense, just with incorrect times. We’ll try and get it sorted.

12.51

Big vote this – not many against, quite a few extensions, but the motion clearly passes to “defeat racism and fascism within our campuses and our communities”. At last. “Phew” the speaker says. Quite.

12.50

“We are uniting on the prejudice and how we disagree with it, on racism, different forms of education the different priorities of Further Education over here. We had the time to discuss the welfare not as much as we would want . We now need to discuss other issues in the conference”, one delegate says to conference. The vote for a further extension to the debate isn’t passed as so we finally move onto a vote!

12.48

The next motion, regarding alcohol and welfare, is being put on hold for the freedom of speech motion; it’s clearly a massive issue. ” i am not sure we have a firm mandate on this issue. If you go back to your campus without that there will be criticism of the National Conference. I don’t want this to be next issues we are vilified for.”

12.46

“I just want to point out that we got lost and confused during the discussion here,” one delegate has come to the stage and said. “I think there are some really major issues that have been over looked here. We must consider whether we are just asking the NUS to look at these things or we want something else to look at hate speech.”

12.45

Wes Streeting has said in my shiny little booklet that the NUS Conference is a “fantastic opportunity to shape students’ lives”.

12.44

“The Nazis were book burners and this should not happen in our universities. Support this amendment.” Receives huge applause and passes as a result.

12.39

“Universities should be places of debate and free discussion and we must protect free debate” one delegate responds. There certainly is free speech here – this motion is going on for ages!

12.35

Seems like there’s been a bit of a compromise – a vote for 15 minutes more of debate instead of 30. Seems a bit more popular.

12.34

However: “I really hate the BNP, this isn’t about that. This is about the issue of time – we’re already running very late as it is. If we keep extending guillotines, we will go on to quash areas that really need to be debated and we really need to hear.”

12.32

‘Free speech’ versus ‘intimidation of black and Muslim students’ would sum this up. A guillotine has fallen apparently, which means there’s no more time to talk about it. But there’s a vote to extend the debate for longer. “After everything that has happened…we need more time to discuss this. We need to say, we came to national conference had a debate and even if you don’t agree, I feel my voice was heard.”

12.29

“Think about what message you would send to the outside world if you send a message that the NUS believes extremism and terrorism is ok on our campuses, this is is a time to get seriously and real, there is a serious problem on our campuses. We need to stand against terrorism.” A widely supported view from the vote and applause.

12.28

Liberal Democrat leader Nick Clegg was the most popular candidate to give a speech yesterday of the three, and he’s launching his manifesto today as well. Expect it to be quite pro-student.

12.25

There’s a lot going on for this motion so I’m getting slightly confused! There’s the original motion followed by two amendments to it, and then we’re having votes to amendment what’s in the amendments! Could go on a while!

12.24

Quite a controversial motion this, still talking the ‘pro no platform’ amendment to motion 613. “We don’t want the government to to regulate speech on campus. That is a dangerous place to be.” Receives a big applause.

12.23

Confusion as a speaker confuses whether he should be speaking for or against an amendment. Everyone briefly goes nuts. Attempts to motion to allow fascist parties onto campuses are proving to be the biggest debate of the day so far but it appears that “no platform” will prevail. Wes Streeting takes to the stage to try and clarify what’s going on.

12.22

“No fascists on our campuses” is the clear message from this speaker. “If you stand here against all the hatred and lies in the Islam community, then please votes against this amendment for a no platform policy for fascists across the entire NUS.”

12.18

Someone from Durham University Union, which has recently removed itself from the NUS. “I’m sure I’m not the only one that believes in freedom speech.” In support of the motion, he gives examples of extremist speakers which he disagrees with, but does agree with them having the right to say what they say.

12.16

There’s also a speech about freedom of speech. However, “we also have a role in protecting students from harm”. These are hard debates, but the NUS will not stand for University Chancellors and staff making the decision on controversial speakers making speeches on campuses.

In response: “I am in favour of democracy and freedom of speech. By passing this motion, you are removing people’s right to freedom of speech. If you remove this right just because you don’t agree with an opinion, it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t hear it. We don’t get the chance to challenge their thoughts if we don’t include them in consultations.”

Finally some actually debate rather than consensus!

12.12

Student Parents motion passes. Now on to Faith and Safety:
“Under no circumstances would I invite a fascist to my home. I If you have hatred against ethnic minorities there is no place for you on campus.” Huge applause for saying that if a hindu love symbol is next to a sign saying “no pakis”, then it is definitely not a hindu love symbol, and obviously something else that a swastika would represent.

12.12

Someone remarked earlier how eerily similar all the different SUs are, and how this resembles an enormous and expensive YUSU UGM and elections hustings.

12.07

“Student Parents are shut out and ignored. Institutions don’t know they exist and don’t care to find out.” Scathing attacks at Universities, but the NUS is there to hold them to account at the end of the day. “We must keep fighting to make sure the demands made by Student parents become a reality. We must make sure they are invisible no longer.”

12.05

Oh, seems like there’s more speeches on it! Got mixed up between the vote on the main motion and some amendments made to it which also get a separate vote. Just like everything else though, I’m sure it’ll pass. Are there no controversial issues which won’t be passed?

12.02

No speeches against student workers issues – couldn’t see anyone voting against so it passes.

12.00

Budget limit for campaign: £375. But that’s only for things that can be handed out. But t-shirts etc. are for campaigners so they don’t have to be claimed for. Comparing Ali’s and Leyland’s hand-outs… no match. Could you not have invested a bit more Ali? Charlie’s hand-outs are colourful, easy to read and dynamic.

12.00

Students as workers is the issue now: “People should be payed equally and fairly regardless of their age. Unpaid work separates whose who can work for free and those who can’t. We need better regulation and they must be enforced in the area of work experience.”

12.00

People with stickers on faces. You kooky people.

11.57

And the people do vote for the motion. Alot. It passes.

11.57

Next up is a welfare issue on transport, a “major cost for many students” according to the motion. Again, there’s no speech against so it seems pretty much accepted already. In any case the motion wants to do many things, including lobby National Rail regarding restriction on the 16-25 railcard and work with National rail to better publicise the fact that the 16-25 railcard is also available to full time students over 26. The NUS welfare zone should also lobby the government to further subsidise further education student transport, as well as lobby for a national student concession on all public transport. “It’s really easy to dismiss this as student’s trying to get as much discount as possible… but without access to transport we can’t widen participation. If you believe in this, vote for the motion.”

11.57

Also got hold of Usman Ali’s poster. He is another competitor for Vice-Pres. He says, “We won’t pay more for less.”

Sorry Ali – your poster is very blocky, black and white and hard to read!

11.57

Whilst on a search for more coffee (umph) one of Riberio-Addy’s enthusiastic campaigners handed me one of her manifesto posters. Her leading policies are “defend our education – no to cuts!” and a “strong and democratic union”. Daf Adley, LGBT Officer, says, “I’ve worked with Bell to oppose the fascist BNP, demand free education and defend democracy and diversity in our union. For an effective, campaigning union Bell is the only choice for President.”

11.55

Marks ends his speech with “stop the right wing” but also “transfer to Bell”, implying Porter is the right wing.

11.53

There’s a break now for people to vote. Everyone has two hours so they’ll probably be a lot more campaigning before we find out the results.

11.50

Finance seems to be a big issue this year at the NUS conference. Motion 609 is quite a big one, also regarding student finance. “We need to give information to students on finance and guidance. It is difficult at the moment for students to find this information,” says a member of the NEC. Manchester University have amended the proposal slightly, believing that the Student Loan Company has “failed to live up to its guarantee that those who applied on time would be paid on time. What happened was shambolic. The Students Loan Company has got to get its act together.” No speeches against this motion so straight to a vote again, which is clearly passed.

11.49

The hall is filling up again, presumably most of the delegates have been busy voting, but they’re now returning to hear issues from the Welfare Zone.

11.48

Leyland’s campaign material isn’t overly critical of the current Higher Education zone set up but is more focused around promoting what she can do to improve things further. An interesting campaign pledge is her offer of a weekly blog on her activities, something a few candidates at York have been offering. Speaking to people at the conference, they seem impressed with Leyland but won’t tip her outright to win.

11.48

Wave from Tim. Yay!

11.48

If Matt Burton and Tommy Flynn wish to post more pictures on Facebook, they would be much appreciated.

11.47

I have got my mitts on one of Charlie’s competitor’s manifesto, ‘Us Man’.

It’s very pop-artsy (minus the artistic value…). He says he wants to work with student “to ensure that grassroot issues are raised nationally”, and has a little cartoon strip. Jazzy.

11.46

Motion 608 is all about Pastoral care. A lot of these issues might be dry, but they’re really important. Two speeches in total supporting this motion which resolves to assist student’s unions in how to audit pastoral services available locally as well as lobby for the protection of campus support services and pastoral care despite Higher Education funding cuts. The motion is passed.

11.44

According to my shiny blue booklet, NUS’ policy is split into five zones:

- Further education
- Higher education
- Society and citizenship
- Union development
- Welfare

11.42

The room has filled up again now and there’s some more motions on welfare issues. The motion regarding mental health, which resolved the NUS to continue to work with the Disabled Students’ Campaign on mental health, has just been passed.

11.41

Again, sorry about the messed up times people. This is all in the right order, the times are just an hour out.

11.40

“Militant socialist” Chris Marks, who is running for President, wants absolutely no cuts anyway. He demands the unionisation of all working students, amongst other things including a battle against the NUS Trustee Board. He accuses them of having disproportionate levels for a “semi-elected” body and having “fat cat” Kate Davies on its External Trustee board. His campaign literature is full of references to being working class and fighting capitalism.

11.35

Serious comments are very much welcomed…

I know many of you may still be in bed (or revising – yer, right!)

11.32

Ok, some info about the Conference according to my infallible little blue booklet. The people at the Conference other than delegates are:

- The Democratic Procedures Committee (DPC) who are responsible for the smooth running of Conference and sit at the front of the Conference Hall (very suave and important they look, too);

- The Chief Returning Officer and their deputies who are responsible for the smooth running of the NUS Elections;

- The NUS and Sage Staff who carry out administration of Conference. Their conduct, and the conduct of delegates towards the, is covered by the Staff Protocol.

11.27

Chris Young: “I’m going to sway. It feels like a swaying moment.”

Westlife ends and he stops moving.

11.23

Scarlett is very excited as Westlife has just started to be played at the Conference. We expect Jim Bulley to enthusiastically burst in anytime soon.

Anyone have any thoughts of disaffiliation? All comments welcome (we love you really, Jason).

11.19

NUS Student Media have said on twitter that they are enjoying our blog! Huzzzaaahhh!!!

11.18

This is too dramatic for this empty room. I am almost having a heart attack.

In other news, another picture! Thanks Matt Burton.

And Nick Scarlett, Student Activities Officer-elect, is acting NUS Delegate for the day as Ben Humphrys is unwell. He says, “I am proud to represent York students and their views for the day.”

OMG this music is so ridiculous. We are in the Matrix. Just to give you an idea of atmosphere.

11.17

One of the delegates walking back in is dressed in a brown suit, waistcoat and bowler hat combo more suited to the Tory party conference. Wondering if he’s serious.

11.14

Big Leyland presence lobbying delegates outside of the voting hall. Plenty of YUSU faces there too, from former YUSU big man Chancellor Matt Burton to Student Activities Officer-elect Nick Scarlett. Scarlett’s joined us and he’s unhappy with the price of food. Greggs isn’t far away though, he says.

11.12

The music is VERY dramatic. We all recognise it from somewhere – then the legend is Ben Gascoyne recognises it: “Isn’t it what they use in Sky Sports News?” Everyone apart from Laura: “YEEEEES!”. So that’s where Laura recognised it from.

11.11

Ok. Lots of chat about Durham disaffiliation. Last month 51.6 per cent of students voted ‘no’ to affiliation with NUS, after a petition calling for the referendum was signed by over 1, 000 students following the NUS’ supposed “mishandling of the cancelled Union Society multiculturalism debate with two BNP politicians.”

I would provide a link to the Durham newspaper website. But they’re rubbish. More exciting gimmicks to come though. Such as this. Check. Me.

President of Hatfield College at Durham told me he “doesn’t know whether it is a good idea” that Durham have become disaffiliated. Hmmmm

11.08

On seeing Tim Ngwena enter the room from about 40 meters away, the whole Nouse gang waves and shouts very enthusiastically! In response, Tim looks the other way and completely blanks us. How rude! Come on Tim, give us a wave!

11.04

Everyone here seems to be linking in what they’re doing to the NUS twitter feed: “lbpreston Currently at the mens urinal, no handed #nusnc10″. Supercalafradge.

11.01

The room has gone rather empty now, everyone’s gone to vote or get as much coffee as they can to cure their hangovers. The mood is being set by some lovely impressionist piano music in the background. It is nice to get away from the passionate political jargon for a bit though!

11.01

What bizarre music for the interval. A cross between dramatic Hollywood love story and yoga relax cd

10.52

No standing ovation for the grassroots campaigner Chris Marks, tho a few whoops.

10.51

Marks also says that conference should be more sovereign. “I stand for free education and living grants for all, not because the world bank say we need skilled workers – that is what students need.”

10.51

He reels off a list of universities that are “fighting back”. He’s quoting votes for strikes and is attacking the status quo for being complacent with their Vice-Chancellors. Going after individuals who he’s accusing of aiding in ripping off students, he is demanding taxes for bosses to pay for education. Hard left. A bit of reluctance from the audience to clap some of his points. “There’s a war outside”. Eek.

10.51

He also says that the NUS ignores those students who have the courage to stand up and fight.

10.50

Marks: “We are told to carefully think through cutes. They mean we should accept cuts to our education are inevitable. How long will we put up with a union that accepts scabbing? how long do we put up with an executive that behaves in this way? The plans for a merger with AMSO that keeps their own wages up will turn the NUS into a buying group.”

10.48

“We must stop the reactionary attacks otherwise we will be isolated and weak. A Tory government would see a track back to the Thatcher era.” More standing applause for Bell Ribeiro-Addy, though it must be said, not as much as there was for Aaron Porter.

10.48

Verry lefty speech from Ribeiro-Addy here. “A vote for Cameron would return us to Thatcherite England.”

Porter hasn’t been a student for four years. Is it a sad state of affairs that the only candidate with “viability” according to one observor is so out of touch?

10.47

Chris Marks, “an activist and a socialist” takes to the stage next

10.45

She pledges to reverse cuts that have happened in recent years, citing how this is the smallest national conference in years. She also identifies issues of minority integration. Also: “There is no platform for any fascist on any campus.”

10.43

Porter is using very gung-ho rhetoric. You can see he is used to this kind of theatrical speech-making. All crescendos and “dangerously coming behind” metaphors. Phew.

10.43

Bell Ribeiro-Addy now. She’s identifying problems as well, such as employment. “It’s time to end the failed leadership on higher education.” She also attacks her opponents, one of which wants to introduce a further tax on students.

10.43

Less interest for Bell Ribeiro-Addy from the crowd, but she still manages to elicit some applause.

10.42

Porter is definitely passionate – fire in his belly! A very well practiced speech so far. Standing ovation from everyone.

10.39

He wants to tackle the big issues that will face the NUS this year. He describes himself as the “only credible candidate”. It seems that funding is the biggest issue for him. Porter identifies the loan company being a problem, as well as the idea of the Brown review recommending higher fees. “If the next secretary of State isn’t prepared to back us, they should be prepared for the biggest backlash they’ve ever seen.”

10.39

Porter’s calls for a backlash against reluctant politicians rallies the delegates quite loudly.

10.39

Tommy Flynn just came over the chat to Nouse. He says that the campaign has been so successful as the tactics used on campus haven’t really been seen before (cardboard, paper hats – thanks for the explanation, Ben, very useful! – etc.)

Check out his Charlie Angel of the North.

10.37

Much applause for Aaron Porter.

10.37

Porter is very aggressive. Lots of cheering. Smart white shirt. Not too much waving of hands.

“This is an election about issues and how we tackle them”

10.36

Aaron Porter was apparently the clear cut winner a week ago (current Vice-Pres)… he is just about to speak.

10.35

The voting system is slightly different for elections for positions. Delegates go to a separate room to vote secretly during breaks after the speeches. The system used is ATV (Alternative Transferable Vote) for positions for a single member, of which the President is. Voters will vote in preference of 1, 2, 3 etc in the order of preference for each candidate. Four candidates: AaronPorter, Chris Marks, Bell Ribeiro-Addy and RON.

10.35

On the back of Charlie Leyland’s campaign booklet is a set of instructions for making a comedy paper hat. “Fold a piece of newspaper in half, fold the two folded corners in middle, fold the bottom flap (only the one on top) in half, then up again. Flip the paper over so that you’re looking at the “flat” back of the paper. Fold the two sides in until they meet in the middle. Then fold the top point down (folder on the line made by the top of the two side folds), and make sure the tip of the point tucks under the band. Fold the two bottom corners in. Fold the bottom point in half, then up again so that you can tuck the point in behind the band. Now this is kind of a tricky one. Grasp the two bottom points of the band and pull them apart – one towards you, one away – so that the hat opens. Pull them completely apart so that the sides of the hole you’re producing meet together in the middle. Fold the two edge corners in half, then fold them again so that you can them into the band. Then, grasp the orange dots and open the bottom opening again. The opening should be now more or less round, and you should be able to put it on your head. If it’s too small (or too big) trying it again with a different size piece of paper.”

And that is how you make Charlie Leyland’s paper hat.

10.30

Big debate next – an election for the National President of the NUS. Apparently the result is clear cut already, but the speeches are bound to be passionate in a last ditch attempt to win votes.

10.28

A speech against now – the motion is important but apparently students need to able to access all information and not just pro choice information. Met with quiet applause, but the speaker defends herself saying her students from Northern Ireland have lobbied her with this view. In response, the President of the NEC urges the delegates to vote for the motion, describing it as not pro abortion but definitely pro choice. The motion is passed almost unanimously.

10.27

Two more speeches in support of that sexy motion, which also resolves to put together a plan of action for student sexual health. An LGBT representative announces his support, which is responded with with lots of applause.

10.25

The floor has still yet to really fill up. Getting busier though, as the debate for the presidency approaches at half past.

10.23

“Genital worts is definitely not sexy. Not one person wants them. But one in four people here probably has clamidia.” A lot of laughs for this motion which “isn’t sexy” but is about sex. The motion wants the NUS to lobby Government for free access to sexual health services for all students.

10.22

As mentioned earlier, all the motions being discussed at the moment are related to welfare. There was no speech against motion 604 regarding hate crime, so that has passed pretty unanimously. The next motion is about health services and costs. The NUS should apparently have a strategy in place in case of epidemics in the future as well as work with the department of health. They’re speaking very fast though – seems to be a lot of passion with another speech for the motion followed by lots of clapping! Again, there’s no speech against so it’s “clearly passed”.

10.19

What also emerged from the proceedings yesterday was the mandate for a NUS demonstration in September, where they’ll be protesting things that bother them, like tuition fees and welfare.

10.16

I apologise for all the confused times on the blog currently… I have frantically emailed the Technical Director after fruitlessly trying to sort the problem out… I am sure he will sort it asap.

10.14

Some very rowdy young men were just sat beside me.

One of them, noticing my hoody (can’t really miss… us three are all in the same one and have been trudging copies of Nouse around all morning), he says, “OOOO you are from the student media?” *Gesturing to speccy, skinny bloke beside him* “He is the Editor of the Brighton newspaper.”

“Oh, the Pebble?” I ask.

“Yes, it’s not called the Pebble anymore, it’s called…” *dramatic pause* “… the Verse!”

“O… nice… ok.”

Editor from the Verse: “We’re not blogging though. We’re rubbish.”

10.11

Yesterday, the leaders of the three major political parties gave speeches via video. Nick Clegg was the only candidate to use all 5 minutes allowed, and also received the best reception. It was all a bit like panto though according to a NUS worker, who said that Cameron received jeers and boos and Gordon a mixed response.

10.08

Apparently all the voting that’s happening here today is political – according to sources in the Leyland campaign, they have support from the people representing Jewish students here. However, because of that, they’ve now lost the Islam backing, though this is also partly because of the fact her main competitor Usmann Ali, is backed by the Palestine Solidarity Society. As I said, very political.

Similar reports have been heard regarding political affiliation – apparently David Levene, a NUS delegate representing York here today, was thinking of voting on his ties with the Labour party, and so may not have supported Charlie Leyland! We await to see how he votes later this afternoon – Charlie’s speech and vote is at 4:00 this afternoon.

10.06

Mr Labour boy at the stall also told me that no Labour or Tory MPs will be here campaigning today… but there will be a Liberal

10.05

Chris Young has just spotted Tim Ngwena but I didn’t see! Wave Tim!

10.05

YUSU President Tim Ngwena makes an arrival. Wahey.

10.03

Jamie Tyler, past YUSU Sabbatical Officer, explained to Nouse how the NUS works and the significance of all the decisions that are happening here today have in relation to York: “The NUS creates all the policy for themselves; it’s what the officers of the NUS have to adhere to. They advise Student Unions. Nothing that the NUS decides is binding to Unions so YUSU doesn’t have to stick to NUS policy, but as we’re voting on it we usually do. I can’t think of any policies that we’ve massively disagreed with in recent history.”

10.02

We’re moving through motions at the moment. Apparently, if the speakers are missing, they’re probably hungover.

10.00

Jim Bulley from the Leyland campaign team has given us a run over of what’s going on. Charlie’s running one of the most visible campaigns here but faces 5 other opponents on the way, the Vice-President for Higher Education role being the most highly contested at the conference. Her campaign literature is full of praise for her achievements in York. Jamie Tyler, former YUSU man, says that her race is the only one that’s up in the air though, so it could be a close afternoon.

09.57

The Saga Arena is amazing, a quite incredible building. It’s a massive arena which houses other buildings. We’re currently on the balcony of hall 1, the main hall for the big debates. On the stage is the NEC – the National Executive Committee – which includes all of the the NECs elected officials such as President, Vice-President etc.

At the moment, the motions being discussed are welfare related. Each speech is about a minute to a minute and a half long, some of which are very passionate. The hall is full of politically minded students which from around the country, each of which raises their hand to vote on issues.

09.57

Some of the issues here directly affect what happens at York, so it’s all important stuff! The NUS fights for “the best deal possible for students”, as one speaker just said on an issue regarding University accommodation.

09.51

We spent some time chatting to the nice men at the Labour students stall this morning… even they had heard of the Leyland campaign and were wearing one of her stickers! Ooomph. Lots of election talk going on at the moment… predictably. I think Labour were a tad nervous about the Liberals’ decision to put cutting tuition fees in their manifesto. Big hit for students. How are you going to vote?

09.41

Hello all! We are here at The Sage now, all set up and ready to start blogging a-hoy! It was a bloody early start, but several coffees and lots of exciting chats with NUS delegates from across the country have kept us awake. We saw Charlie come in earlier, looking very excited-nervous, with a massive bunch of Leyland t-shirts with her. Jamie Tyler came and stamped some bright orange Charlie Leyland stickers on us earlier too. Her campaign certainly looks the most impressive thus far… one lady from Endsleigh and the press man from NUS both enthused about her presence. But she is running for the most contested position… we all know how impressive the Leyland campaign team is on campus, but let us hope it can translate nationally!