Education Secretary defends free speech amid criticism over delayed legislation

Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson emphasised the importance of exposing students to differing views, affirming the Government’s commitment to free speech and academic freedom.

Addressing the House of Commons, she stated: “We want to make sure that our universities are places of intellectual challenge and rigour, where people will be exposed to views with which they may disagree.”

Ms Phillipson acknowledged the right of academics to express challenging opinions, adding: “I accept that academics should be free to express a wide range of views, and there will be views that people sometimes find challenging.”

Her comments come as she faces scrutiny for pausing the Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Act, which sought to combat “cancel culture” on campuses. The legislation, a key Conservative policy, was set to allow students, staff, and speakers to claim compensation if they were denied a platform.

Criticism has mounted following the decision to delay the Act. Shadow Education Secretary Laura Trott urged action, telling MPs: “Inaction has consequences, and this delay is causing harm.”

Ms Phillipson defended the pause, citing concerns raised by minority groups and stating, “We want legislation that is workable.”

More than 660 academics have called for the Act to be reinstated, and a judicial review on the decision is scheduled for 23 January.

Discussions are reportedly ongoing to amend the legislation, with proposals to remove the “statutory tort” provision, which allows for civil claims if free speech rights are violated.

Ms Phillipson assured MPs that the Government is consulting stakeholders and will announce its position “in due course”.

Meanwhile, critics argue that the delay risks undermining the Act’s intended protection of free expression.