News in Brief
Oxford's licensing officials have announced the decision to grant late licences to four bars in the town centre and Cowley Road area, writes David Griffiths.
In spite of local opposition, the Bullingdon Arms, Genesis, Bar Risa and Bar Baby have been allowed extended open hours, following recent changes in licensing laws.
The changes have aroused varied responses from Oxford residents; Councillor Colin Cook is quoted by BBC Oxford, saying that locals around Bar Baby have been forced to endure very anti-social behaviour. Others welcome the proposals as a much-needed boost for Oxford nightlife.
In a major U-turn, Chelsea Clinton has hailed Oxford as 'wonderful', following complaints of homesickness in her first term.
In November the unhappy postgraduate told Talk magazine, "Every day I encounter some sort of anti-American feeling," prompting speculation she could be switching to the more international London School of Economics. However, she claims to have settled in the company of fellow American students, quoted in the New York Post as saying, "I'm having a great time."
Oxford departments have been told that they face research grant cuts despite previous suggestions that they would emerge unscathed from next year's funding settlement.
The move follows a decision to increase funding only for the very best, 5* rated departments in the country. This means that 21 of Oxford's 46 departments will lose out.
Reports also suggest that top researchers in certain subject areas with a high proportion of highly-rated departments, such as chemistry, face cuts of up to 15%.
University heads across the country told MPs that the proposals amount to "a slap in the face."
7th Feb 2002