Here is Queen Margaret University’s response to our Freedom of Information request:

Q: Does your HE establishment have a policy on the use of fur?

A: The University has no written policy on the usage of fur.

The University has one programme where students may come into contact with fur: BA (Hons) Costume Design and Construction.

In the absence of a written policy on the usage of fur, the BA (Hons) Costume Design and Construction Programme Leader has provided the following comments:

• No student has to work with fur or new fabrics that they disapprove of, or which they are allergic to.
• The discipline of historical costuming requires students to work with recycled garments from many era’s and cultures, which may include fur and leather.
• In terms of budgeting, the programme team look for the cheapest best option. This is usually recycled garments or fabrics.
• Students may be present in the same workroom or store as other students working with fur.

Q: Does real fur feature in any of your fashion or design courses, and if so, in what way?

A: See response to question one. Fur may feature as part of the BA (Hons) Costume Design and Construction programme as part of a recycled garment

Q: What financial support, including sponsored competitions do you receive from the fur industry?

A: The University has received no financial support from the fur industry

Q: Does your HE establishment allow or facilitate the fur industry to promote design competitions, summer schools, sponsorships, internships, or scholarships?

A: The University has not, and does not, facilitate the promotion of the fur industry in the aforementioned ways.

 

This university has no clear stance on the use of fur.

Real fur is cruel and unnecessary. Please urge the University to adopt a fur free policy.