Conference of Common Rooms Trinity 25

We’re pleased to announce that all motions proposed at the inaugural Conference of Common Rooms (CCR) have been passed and are now official SU mandates. 

CCR is the SU’s formal meeting for Common Room Presidents to propose motions, discuss, scrutinise, and shape SU policy to guide our work. The meeting, held in Week 3 of Trinity term, saw 33 common room representatives in attendance. We’re grateful to all Presidents and attendees who contributed their time, energy and voices to the discussion. 

The mandates voted on and now in effect are: 

1. Dark Skies 
   Mandates Oxford SU to oppose reductions in public street lighting by Oxford City Council, advocating for student safety and wellbeing in discussions with local authorities. 

1. Ethical Investments Representations Review Sub-Committee 
   The motion seeks to reaffirm Oxford SU's mandate to advocate for University divestment, both indirect and direct, from arms companies manufacturing controversial weapons, following student consultation. 

1. Historic External and Student Trustee Appointments Ratification 
   Ratifies previous external and student trustee appointments, ensuring formal governance procedures are upheld. 

1. International Student Fees 
   Mandates advocacy against unpredictable fee increases for international undergraduates. Calls for fixed or capped tuition rates and improved transparency in student communications. 

1. Motion to Mandate Action on the Future of Undergraduate Admissions Testing 
   Commits the SU to engage with the University’s review of undergraduate admissions testing, ensuring student voices are represented, particularly around fairness and accessibility. 

1. Supreme Court Ruling re Sex and Gender 
   Reaffirms Oxford SU’s support for trans, intersex, and non-binary students in light of the UK Supreme Court ruling. Directs the SU to campaign for inclusive policies and protections across the University. 

The motions in full can be found on our website, as well as the unconfirmed minutes from the previous CCR. We’ve also created a voting record tool, that allows students to view how their common room has voted for each motion.  

The next CCR meeting will take place on Tuesday 10 June, at 6-8pm in the H B Allen Centre.  Whilst only Common Room Presidents are voting members, all students are encouraged to attend and can submit motions through their common rooms or SU sabbs. 

We remain committed to our primary purpose of student representation, and want to extend our thanks to everyone who made this CCR a success. Registration for the next CCR can be found on our website, and we look forward to seeing you there!