STUDENTS occupying part of Leeds University in an environmental protest say they have been threatened with forceful eviction.

Members of the Student Rebellion climate campaign began the occupation on Monday when they took over a lecture theatre in the university’s business school.

They have made a list of demands about the university’s alleged involvement with fossil fuels industries and companies.

The students have accused the university of refusing to engage with them over their demands, which include ending any involvement of fossil fuel companies at the university, including recruitment.

They say they will continue the occupation until their demands are met.

One anonymous occupier said: “I am occupying this lecture theatre because I am terrified about the climate emergency. 

“The university claims to be a world-leading institution in climate research and innovation, yet when we try to speak out about their links to fossil fuels, we are ignored and threatened. It’s just so hypocritical.”

Another occupier, also anonymous, said: “They are just playing dirty now. We are asking for constructive, ongoing collaboration to engage with their students and staff.

"I think that’s pretty basic to be honest. Instead of talking to us, they are sending legal threats. What does this say about how our university values student voices?”

The students say they are waiting for a possession order, that they have been threatened with disciplinary action, physical removal and the possibility of a claim for compensation.

The university, which has neither confirmed or denied the eviction claims, has defended its environmental record and is promoting a climate plan which it says will achieve “net zero” emissions from the campus by 2030.

It said: “While we are unable to provide a running commentary on the situation, we are mindful of the impact the occupation is having on those of our students whose studies have been negatively impacted by the actions of a small group. 

“The University of Leeds has taken a robust approach to tackling climate change.

“We are proud of our efforts to lead global action and will continue working collaboratively with our staff and students to make a real difference.”