UK Government Revises Free Speech Legislation for Universities

The Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Act moves forward with key changes, removing controversial statutory tort provisions.

Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson announced the government will proceed with the Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Act after a review of its provisions.
The statutory tort, which would have allowed individuals to sue universities for failing to uphold free speech duties, has been removed due to concerns about financial strain on institutions.
Universities and student unions will still be required to promote and protect lawful free speech, with oversight from the Office for Students (OfS).
The legislation also introduces external complaints mechanisms for academics, students, and speakers who feel their lawful free speech has been restricted.
Critics, including opposition MPs and university representatives, argue the revisions do not go far enough, with some calling the legislation a continuation of 'culture war' politics.