Oxford College too strict on sexual harassment

The female head of an Oxford college has criticised the university for being too strict on sexual harassment. Ruth Deech, principal of St Anne's College, said Oxford had "overdone" its concerns, writes Harriet Swain.

"There are far too many rules," she said. "I think it is treated much more seriously than other things like drunkenness and violence. There comes a point when the right to be free of sexual harassment comes against freedom of speech."

Mrs Deech was speaking after top scientist Roy Anderson was suspended following formal complaints from two female members of staff.

Brains behind Britain, p18