Hull University tells academic keeping books on shelf is an 'unnecessary storage of combustible materials'

The University of Hull has told an academic that keeping his books on a shelf is an "unnecessary storage of combustible materials".

Christopher Fear, the university's programme director for politics and international relations, was shocked to receive a slap on the wrist following a safety check around the institution.

He wrote: "Following a standard workplace safety check, I have just received an email from a university administrator in which my custom of keeping books on the shelves in my office is described as 'the unnecessary storing of combustible materials'."

Mr Fear specialises in right-wing political ideology, leading modules such as History of Political Thought, as well as topics including electoral systems and US politics.

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Some of the books he photographed on his shelf included a textbook on "Conservative Governments in the Age of Brexit" and Robert Blake's The Conservative Party, from Peel to Major".

Part of Mr Fear's collection included more literature on ethics, including the principle of liberty as well as the principle of logic.

But, after the standard checks were carried out, the academic's ability to have books in his office appears to be no longer permitted.

In the UK, books are generally allowed in an office as long as the space remains uncluttered to prevent creating a fire hazard.

Under safety regulations, loose paper, and "excessive, unchecked accumulations of combustible materials like books" risk blocking emergency escape routes.

GB News has approached the University of Hull for comment.

Locals came face-to-face with similar restrictions down in London after residents hit back against "outrageous" rules which forbade a much-loved community library.

Last year, severe restrictions meant the removal of a free book collection from Lewisham station over failing to adhere to official fire safety regulations.

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In ardent retaliation, Michael Peacock, the library’s curator, launched a petition to save the free library, which racked up almost 2,000 signatures.

Authorities at the London Fire Brigade and the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) confirmed insisted the new fire safety protocols meant their hands were tied.

In response, one local huffed: "They can put men on the moon but choose an easy option to ban books and let kids read on their mobile phones instead. It is outrageous!"

Beyond Britain, however, people have raised the alarm over the lack of health and safety regulations.

After 40 died in a Swiss bar fire in the luxury ski town of Crans-Montana back in January, business owners called for stricter regulations.

Residents declared "serious questions" needed answers, while one Swiss business owner said many "totally ignore" safety regulations.

"It’s mad. People do what they want. This tragedy should not happen in this day and age," he added.

"I spend thousands on health and safety. Many people don’t. They do what they want. They don’t have warning signs for broken glass. They don’t follow fire regulations."

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