FREEDOM OF SPEECH

In May 2023, the Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Act 2023 received Royal Assent and was passed into law. The act aims to strengthen current legislation on freedom of speech and academic freedom in Universities and Students’ Unions (SUs). 

Broadly, Freedom of Speech refers to the right to express lawful opinions without interference, whilst academic freedom aims to protect the right of academics to test received wisdom and put forward controversial opinions. In this context, ‘within the law’ means that speech is protected unless it contravenes another law. For example, speech would not be protected if it constitutes harassment, incites hatred or a criminal act, or it amounts to support of a proscribed (banned) organisation. 

The act places new responsibilities on both Universities and SUs to act in accordance with the legislation. Whilst some of the practical implications of these are still under review, it’s important that we let our members know how the legislation may impact your activity on campus. Here, we’ll be focusing on the Freedom of Speech element of the Act. 

OUR RESPONSIBILITIES 

We must take reasonable steps to secure freedom of speech for our members, staff and visiting speakers, whilst making sure freedom of speech is given enough priority compared to our other objectives as an institution and charity. 

•  This means we’re bound to uphold the principles of freedom of speech in situations where the actions or words of external speakers or members may not align with our own values.

• The use of our premises, funds and resources can’t be denied to our members on grounds of their beliefs or views, if they fall within the law.
•  ​​​​​​​This extends to the affiliation of Societies with the SU; groups can’t be denied affiliation because of their aims and objectives, but again these must fall within the law. 

We’re committed to fulfilling our legislative duty along with the University, but we also understand how important freedom of speech is on campus more broadly and want to make sure all students can voice their opinions freely. 

CODE OF PRACTICE ON FREEDOM OF SPEECH  

The main ways we set out our commitment to freedom of speech is through aligning with the University of Greater Manchester’s Code of Practice on Freedom of Speech    This document sets out broader duties and specific procedures such as visiting speakers.   

EVENTS AND VISITING SPEAKERS 

The SU has a process in place for approving speakers invited by Societies.  Societies must submit their Guest Speaker Request Form at least 4 weeks before the event for approval by the SU.  This gives the SU time to review the application and discuss any additional measures that may need to be put in place for the event to go ahead. 

If you have a question about the freedom of the speech legislation, please email the SU info@ugmsu.com