An anarchist professor who warned that bankers would be “hanging from lampposts” during next week’s G20 protests was tonight suspended by his university.

Chris Knight, a professor of anthropology at the University of East London, will be investigated over alleged misconduct after he appeared to incite violence.

Mr Knight, who is organising protests under the banner G20 Meltdown, told BBC Radio 4’s PM on Wednesday night: “We are going to be hanging a lot of people like Fred the Shred from lampposts on April Fool’s Day and I can only say let’s hope they are just effigies.

“To be honest, if he winds us up any more I’m afraid there will be real bankers hanging from lampposts and let’s hope that that doesn’t actually have to happen.”

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The university initially distanced itself from Mr Knight’s remarks but did not take action against him.

However after a day of discussions a spokesman said: “Professor Chris Knight has been suspended from his duties at the University of East London, pending investigation. In order not to prejudice this process we cannot make any further comment.”

Mr Knight, 66, who lives in Lewisham, South London, had also warned that the protests could “get nasty”.

He said: They (bankers) should realise the amount of fury and hatred there is for them and act quickly, because quite honestly if it isn’t humour it is going to be anger.

“I am trying to keep it humorous and let the anger come up in a creative and hopefully productive and peaceful way.

“If the other people don’t join in the fun - I’m talking about the bankers and those rather pompous ministers - and come over and surrender their power obviously it’s going to get us even more wound up and things could get nasty. Let’s hope it doesn’t.”

The G20 Meltdown Group appeared to also distance itself from Mr Knight tonight.

A spokesman said: “We are organising a carnival street party at the Bank of England on April 1. We are encouraging people to dress up in fancy dress and bring food to share.

“Comments that have been made by individuals otherwise are misrepresenting what we are organising.”

Mr Knight could not be contacted for comment.

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