Commons Sense

House of Commons · Westminster Hall

At-risk Academics: UK Support

12 September 2023 · 5 other contributors · 3,755 words

Opened by Julian Lewis Con New Forest East

Responding minister: Sarah Dines

ImmigrationForeign Affairs

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

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Julian Lewis raised concerns about at-risk academics: uk support in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.

Key points

  • The right hon. Member is concerned about the plight of academics at risk due to conflict, repressive regimes, or extremist groups, highlighting cases from Azerbaijan, Yemen, Ukraine, Myanmar, and Afghanistan.
  • The MP asks the Government to ensure a 100% success rate for Cara-associated visa applications and to consider a longer-term follow-on scheme similar to the Researchers at Risk programme.
  • The Minister commits to supporting at-risk academics through the UK's visa regime and protective security measures, and acknowledges the work of organisations like Cara in creating opportunities for eligible individuals.

Key requests to Government

The MP asks for continued positive support from the Home Office and UKVI on Cara-associated visa applications to ensure a 100% success rate. He also requests that the Government considers a longer-term follow-on scheme similar to the successful Researchers at Risk programme, which would further establish the UK as a global leader in supporting at-risk academics.

How the debate unfolded

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

Opened the debate

Julian Lewis Con New Forest East

The right hon. Member is concerned about the current plight of academics around the world who are at risk due to conflict, repressive regimes, or extremist groups. He highlights the case of Dr Gubad Ibadoghlu from Azerbaijan who was subjected to arbitrary arrest and physical violence. The MP also discusses specific cases such as Naila, an academic from Yemen under siege; Nadiya, a Ukrainian academic forced to flee after Russia's invasion; Wynne, a researcher in Myanmar seeking refuge after the military coup; and Nooria, a specialist in gynaecology and obstetrics trapped at home following the Taliban takeover.

Other contributors (5)
  • Andrew Bridgen Con North West Leicestershire

    The hon. Member for North West Leicestershire agrees with the right hon. Member's points and highlights the Researchers at Risk programme, which has been funded by the Government to support 180 academics from Ukraine.

  • Jeremy Corbyn Ind Islington North

    Dr Gubad Ibadoghlu, a distinguished academic in Azerbaijan, is facing intimidation and needs medical support to continue his work. The MP requests that the British Government ensure Dr Ibadoghlu's safety and right to pursue his profession. Thanked the Minister but asked if more direct pressure could be put on Governments like Azerbaijan regarding the treatment of academics.

  • Jim Shannon DUP Strangford

    Over 100 Ukrainian academics have been supported since 2022 through fellowships, highlighting the UK's compassionate approach. The MP suggests extending similar support to academics from Afghanistan and ensuring ongoing career assistance.

  • Jonathan Lord

    The MP commends Jeremy Corbyn for his speech and raises concerns about unfair dismissals affecting academics' livelihoods and mental health, advocating for freedom of expression in higher learning institutions.

  • Wendy Chamberlain Lib Dem North East Fife

    I am grateful to the Minister for giving way and recognise the benefit UK institutions receive from hosting top-tier academics, such as those at the University of St Andrews.

Government Response

Sarah Dines

I am grateful to my right hon. Friend for securing this debate and pay tribute to his commitment to highlighting these issues. The UK Government are committed to academic freedom globally, supporting at-risk academics through our visa regime. Our intelligence agencies will identify and mitigate threats, providing protective security if needed. I thank Cara and similar organisations that create opportunities for eligible individuals and groups.

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