Liverpool University has launched an investigation after a script for the Medical Students Society (LMSS) annual play emerged featuring a character being drugged and raped.

The script also mocks the anti-rape slogan "no means no" and was one of three options written by fourth-year medical students for the annual concert, known as Smoker.

The event runs every year and involves each year group performing a pantomime-style play based on an existing story, with sexual elements added. Another script included a female protagonist being referred to as "an ugly, frigid mess" because she would rather study than go out and sleep with someone.

Laura*, a Liverpool medical student, said:

This group represents our future NHS and its doctors. As a medical school we should be pioneers when it comes to social responsibility and professionalism. Within the school, however, it seems that professionalism is something which merely exists within earshot of patients.

The play has been heavily criticised on social media:

The university, the LMSS and the Guild, Liverpool universitys students union, released a joint statement condemning the script.

They said: We expect our students to comply with the universitys policy on student conduct and discipline and adhere to appropriate standards of behaviour.

The university, the Guild of Students and the Liverpool Medical Students Society are shocked at the content of this material which is clearly unacceptable. The university is investigating.

The university and the Guild will continue to work together in combating sexism and sexual harassment.

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Liverpool University Medical School at centre of sexism row over "rape play"