Academic Freedom in Higher Education 2024-09-09
2024-09-09
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP questions the adequacy of current levels of academic freedom.
What assessment has been made of the adequacy of levels of academic freedom in the higher education sector?
The Government supports academic freedom. Higher education should be a space for robust discussion and intellectual rigour, as enshrined in law by a Labour Government. The decision to pause implementation of further parts of the Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Act 2023 was made to ensure a workable legal framework. Officials are consulting stakeholders on all options for protecting academic freedom.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not provide specific plans or commitments beyond consultation with stakeholders.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP inquires about the financial impact on universities regarding authoritarian regimes.
Can she give a cast-iron guarantee that when deciding to reverse the Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Act, no consideration was given to the consequences for university finances from authoritarian regimes like China?
I can give reassurance. The legislation was carefully examined, and concerns were raised by Jewish groups about unintended consequences. I paused commencement to ensure strong, workable legislation while avoiding a situation where hate speech is allowed.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not directly address financial considerations from authoritarian regimes.
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP seeks assurances for women academics facing bullying and hounding.
What reassurances can she give me and other women that she will protect female academics, such as Jo Phoenix, Kathleen Stock, and Selina Todd, from being bullied and hounded out of successful university careers?
Strong freedom of expression is important. Officials will engage with a wide range of views to ensure robust education while avoiding situations where hate speech flourishes on campus.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not provide specific protections or commitments for female academics.
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP inquires about alternative measures after the Government decided not to implement the Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Act.
Will she clarify her alternative plans to protect academic freedom in higher education?
Freedom of expression and academic freedom are crucial. The Office for Students sets out duties, many enshrined in law. However, I want to ensure that the Act does not allow hate speech or Holocaust denial on campus.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not provide specific alternative plans beyond ensuring no hate speech is allowed.
Response accuracy