Family and friends of former Cambridge University Professor Jason Arday are being asked not to talk to the press today.

Family and friends of former Cambridge University Professor Jason Arday are being asked not to talk to the press today.

The 41-year-old was found dead at his home in Battersea on Friday after resigning from his position.

It followed allegations of plagiarism, which he denied.

Bell Ribeiro-Addy, the Labour MP for Clapham, says in his memory, just for today, there should be no interviews, no comments and no panels.

She’s posted to Instagram:

“We know many of you have spoken to the press in recent days — and that mattered. Your voices have carried the injustice that Jason faced.

“But today, we ask something different.

“In his memory, we’re asking all friends and supporters: no interviews, no comments, no panels. Just for today.

“The press may still come. They may still report. That is their business.

“Today ours is Jason.”

Meanwhile, it’s not known whether Andy Burnham’s considering an inquiry into the death of Jason Arday.

He’s been pressed over the possibility of a “Leveson 2” style public inquiry.

But the PM’s team said they’d wait until the inquest into his death concludes before making decision.

The Leader of Lambeth Council, Cllr Martin Abrams, has also paid tribute.

Cllr Abrams said: “I am deeply saddened by the death of Professor Jason Arday at just 41-years-old. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with his family, friends and all those who knew and loved him.

“Jason was a son of Lambeth, born and raised in our borough and growing up in Clapham. He went on to become the youngest Black professor ever appointed at the University of Cambridge, an extraordinary achievement and a source of inspiration to many.

Cllr Abrams said at this moment we must also highlight the “appalling” treatment Jason faced before his death.

He said: “In the final years and months of his life, he was subjected to relentless scrutiny and personal attacks. Not simply scrutiny of an academic, but the tearing down of a prominent Black man whose success challenged deeply entrenched assumptions about who belongs in our most prestigious institutions.

“His death should force some serious reflection about our public discourse and about the additional scrutiny and hostility that Black people can face when they reach positions of prominence and influence.

“Jason’s work focused on racism, inequality, education and opening doors for people who have historically been excluded. Lambeth is proud that Jason Arday was one of our own.

“On behalf of Lambeth Council, I send my deepest sympathies and solidarity to Jason’s family and loved ones. I hope they are now afforded the privacy, dignity and respect they deserve.

“May Jason’s memory be a blessing to all that loved him and may he rest in peace.”