Academic Freedom: Subversion
The question
To ask the Secretary of State for Education, with reference to her Department’s press release entitled New powers to protect vital free speech at universities, published on 20 April 2026, what role the proposed free speech complaints scheme will play in tackling incidents linked to foreign influence.
Answered by Josh MacAlister
The Office for Students’ free speech complaints scheme, open to higher education staff, non-student members and visiting speakers will come into force from 1 September, and will be an important route of redress for those who believe their lawful free speech or academic freedom has not been adequately protected, including in relation to incidents involving foreign interference or influence.
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