Statement from Northumbria University

The University is genuinely sorry for what happened in this case. This was an isolated incident. We reacted promptly to what took place. This included fully co-operating with the HSE investigation and the subsequent prosecution. The University wishes to emphasise that the welfare of students and staff is paramount at all times. Both students, together with their respective families, were provided with every means of assistance which the University could offer. Thankfully, the students made a full physical recovery, and both excelled in the results which they achieved in their degrees in the timescale expected. All remedial measures have been put in place following a thorough review of practices and procedures so as to avoid any recurrence of what happened in March 2015. We are pleased that the Judge, in his summing up, observed that the University had acted appropriately following the event.