PARLIAMENTARY WRITTEN QUESTION
Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Act 2023 (4 October 2024)

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, what the evidential basis is for the statement by her Department's spokesman quoted in the Telegraph of 24 August 2024 that the Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Act 2023 could expose students to harm and appalling hate speech on campuses.

Asked by:
Claire Coutinho (Conservative)

The department has not collected data on individual cases of employment tribunals related to freedom of speech. Cases such as these are rare and are rightfully seen as a last resort.

The department has heard concerns from many in the sector, including minority groups, that the Act and its implementation may have unintended consequences. Many raised concerns that the Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Act could push providers to overlook the safety and wellbeing of minority groups over fears of sanction and costly legal action.

Answered by:
Janet Daby (Labour)
10 October 2024