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Higher Education Freedom of Speech Statement
20 April 2026
Type
Written Ministerial Statement
Department
Department for Education
At a Glance
Issue Summary
The statement addresses the implementation and review o [1D [K of the Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Act 2023, focusing on protectin [9D [K protecting academic freedom and free speech in universities.
Action Requested
I will make commencement regulations by mid-June to [K bring into force certain elements of the Act, including a route for redress [7D [K redress through an OfS complaints scheme and regulatory powers for serious [K issues. I also intend to seek legislation to repeal duties on students’ uni [3D [K unions and may introduce new reporting requirements on overseas funding mea [3D [K measures.
Key Facts
- Academic freedom and free speech are fundamental to unive [5D [K universities.
- In January 2025, I announced my intention to amend the Hig [3D [K Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Act 2023.
- Key provisions of the Act [3D [K Act were commenced on 1 August 2025.
- The OfS has issued guidance and con [3D [K continues to work with providers to protect free speech.
- £3m is being in [2D [K invested to bolster support against foreign interference threats.
- Over 7 [1D [K 70 vice-chancellors received briefings from MI5 and cyber security services [8D [K services on the threats of foreign interference.
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Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy