March 23, 2015, by Charlotte Anscombe
Dr Miwa Hirono – the University expresses ‘extreme disappointment’ at Home Office decision
“The University of Nottingham is extremely disappointed that one of its most promising and talented academics, Dr Miwa Hirono, will be leaving the UK to take up a post overseas following the Home Office’s decision that she and her family are no longer welcome in the country.
“We are saddened by the decision of the Home Office to challenge Dr Hirono’s successful appeal in December, where the judgment specifically cited the ‘significant and profound contribution’ she has made to UK higher education.
“The University believes that Dr Hirono’s case, and others like it, damage the reputation of the UK as a destination for outstanding global talent. This presents a real challenge to British universities and business in their efforts to attract such individuals – who make a significant contribution to UK culture, economy and society.
“If the UK and its universities are to remain globally competitive, then we would hope that policymakers across Government will work together to prevent situations like this from occurring in the future.”
Having been involved in the recruitment of Miwa as an RCUK fellow some years ago, I’m saddened by this news. How is Miwa supposed to conduct her research into Chinese foreign policy and international relations without periods spent in China, whilst clearly being based here. What a waste of talent.
[…] In whose interest is the Home Office acting forcing Dr Hirono to leave the UK? Certainly not the national one, many would argue, including the University of Nottingham that issued the following statement: […]