The new Government has suspended implementation of the Higher Education Freedom of Speech Act which had been due to come into force on 1 August.
Bridget Phillipson, Education Secretary, re-affirmed the Government’s firm commitment to freedom of speech, with universities expected to deliver on their duty to protect it. She said, however, that implementation of the new Act – initiated by the previous Conservative government – would be suspended, to consider options.
An open letter to the Education Secretary signed by over 600 academics has been published, urging the Government to reconsider and implement the legislation.
Professor Richard Black, Provost and Deputy Vice-Chancellor, said: “We remain wholly committed to freedom of speech – it is central to our purpose as a university and always has been. We are a diverse community with different views on many issues and different understandings of the world – fostering an environment where debate can be free and we are open to the exchange of ideas is essential to our purpose.”
Professor Black added: “Freedom of speech must operate within the context of our values and our student code of conduct, as well as the law. We ask everyone to treat each other with understanding and respect.”
Code of Practice
The University already has a policy and code of practice on freedom of speech, enabling staff and students to express their views without fear of censure. The University and Guild of Students have taken the opportunity to review and update the document, formalising its status as a joint policy and code of practice (available on our website).
Support for staff and students
All members of our community should feel safe and included, and we encourage anyone who has experienced any form of hate or who has a safeguarding concern, to report this to the University via our Report and Support channel. Students can access support from Student Services. Our Employee Assistance Programme is also available for staff seeking support.