Commons Sense

House of Commons · General Debate

Freedom of Speech (Universities)

19 January 2021 · 1 other contributor

Opened by David Davis Con Goole and Pocklington

Democracy & Elections

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

David Davis raised concerns about freedom of speech (universities) in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.

Key points

  • Davis commended the importance of freedom of speech as a fundamental principle for UK development.
  • Davis highlighted the historical role of Parliament in protecting freedom of speech and referenced article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
  • Davis cited examples of intellectual rebellion, like Galileo and Darwin, to argue against 'cancel culture' in universities.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

David Davis Con Goole and Pocklington

Davis commended the Chamber's efficiency and emphasised the importance of freedom of speech as a fundamental principle that has contributed to the UK's cultural, societal, scientific, and economic development. He highlighted the historical significance of Parliament in enshrining this right and referenced article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Davis argued against the 'cancel culture' movement, which he sees as damaging to society by censoring controversial opinions rather than debating them openly. He cited examples like Galileo and Darwin, emphasising that such intellectual rebellion leads to progress but is now being stifled in universities. The MP presented data from a survey showing Britain's second-lowest level of academic freedom in Europe and a report indicating that over one-third of UK universities impose severe restrictions on free speech, including prestigious institutions like Oxford, Cambridge, and St Andrews.

Other contributors (1)
  • David Davis Con Goole and Pocklington

    Davis argued for the introduction of a Bill that would make it a duty for universities to promote freedom of speech. He noted that the current legal protections are buried in education Acts, leading to low awareness and compliance among universities. The proposed Bill aims to ensure that every university authority protects free speech by making it their absolute duty, while respecting the boundaries set by laws against illegal speech such as incitement to violence.

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