THE head of an international police agency has refused to speak at the Oxford Union following president Ben Sullivan’s arrest earlier this month.
Interpol secretary-general Ronald Noble withdrew his agreement to speak at the historic venue after allegations of rape and attempted rape made against its president.
Mr Noble said: “Interpol has attempted to contact the Oxford Union since reports of the allegations against Ben Sullivan first surfaced.
“We have received no response to our inquiries.
“Consequently I have decided to withdraw my participation as a speaker at the Oxford Union on Friday, May 30.”
He added: “In my view, he should be guided by the best interests of his organisation.
“He should not be guided by his own interests.
“In this case, my advice to Ben Sullivan would be either to resign or take a leave of absence until the criminal investigation has been completed.”
Mr Sullivan, 21, was arrested on suspicion of rape and attempted rape on Tuesday, May 6.
Students have been campaigning for Mr Sullivan to be replaced after the history and politics student at Christ Church was arrested.
He is on bail until June 18 and has not been charged with any offence.
Mr Sullivan said: “In due course the details and context of these allegations will become public knowledge.
“Unfortunately, as this is an on-going police investigation, I am not able to provide my side of the story.”
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