Student group at the University of Warwick suspended for dispute over Nazi songs

A university has suspended a student group while it investigates a video that appears to show members dancing to a Nazi marching song.

The University of Warwick described the video, which was shared on social networks and in the media, as “reprehensible” and launched an investigation.

The University of Warwick Conservative Association (UWCA) has apologised for the footage, which appears to show attendees of a dinner hosted by the university dancing to “Erika”, a song popular among Nazi soldiers during World War II.

“Anti-Semitism has no place on our campus,” said a university spokesman.

“Warwick SU has suspended the activities of the Warwick Conservative Association while the investigation is carried out.”

As the dinner guests dance to the music, shouts of “very good” can be heard on the video.

The UWCA apologised for the hurt caused by the incident and said the song had been requested by an individual who would be excluded from future events as a result.

In a statement, the group added that most participants were unaware of the meaning of the song and that it would fully cooperate with the university’s investigation.

She also pointed out that her members had consistently taken action against anti-Semitism on campus and would continue to campaign against discrimination.

The Union of Jewish Students had previously stated that the assembly’s “obvious and unchallenged support of National Socialism” was “completely abhorrent” and that it expected decisive action on the matter.

“The glorification of the Nazis has no place in our society,” they said, adding: “It is in no way acceptable and must be condemned in its entirety.”

The university said the externally led investigation could take up to 90 days and that the results would be made public.

“If appropriate action is required following completion of the investigation, we will not hesitate to act,” the spokesman added.