The University of New South Wales has issued a statement commenting on antisemitic remarks posted on social media following the announcement that a Max Brenner chocolate store will open on campus.

The statement reads: “The University of New South Wales deplores all forms of racism and discrimination and condemns in the strongest possible terms the virulent antisemitic comments made on social media in relation to the opening of a Max Brenner shop on campus.

We are sure the University’s student body is also horrified and offended by such statements, which to our knowledge have been posted on social media sites external to the University.

We would hope that the organisers of today’s protest would reject these comments categorically.

The University supports and encourages the free expression of diverse views and open debate on campus but it must be lawful, respectful and responsible, as spelt out in the UNSW Codes of Conduct for staff and students.

As the University has previously stated, the fit-out of the Max Brenner outlet is underway and it will be open by early June.”