The University recognises the paramount importance of Freedom of Speech and Academic Freedom. In the pursuit of new knowledge, free and open debate is crucial. We will therefore seek at all times to promote a culture of vigorous and fearless debate within the law built on the principle of tolerance of different views and beliefs (The University has issued position statements in respect of its approach to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion). We will ensure a high-quality student experience by actively promoting free discussion and interrogation of challenging and sometimes controversial ideas and ensure that our academic staff are able to undertake teaching and research without hindrance to their right to freedom of speech within the limitations of the law.
Freedom of Speech Code of Practice (Approved June 2023).
The University’s policy on freedom of speech code of practice has been prepared in accordance with the Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Act 2023, the Education (No. 2) Act 1986 and the statutory guidance published pursuant to section 26(1) of the Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015, is adopted and the revised code was approved by the Board of Governors in June 2023.
To actively foster freedom of speech, the University collaborates closely with the Student Union, which is an independent legal entity. However, the Student Union is bound by specific legal requirements to ensure the protection of freedom of speech when organising events on University property.
A pivotal element of our approach to promoting freedom of speech within legal boundaries is our dedication to cultivating a culture of open debate. We accomplish this by actively inviting external speakers to engage in discussions on significant and occasionally challenging topics. Accordingly, the code also outlines arrangements for the following events:
- All events and meetings held on the University's premises (including premises controlled by the Students' Union).
- Online events that are facilitated by the University or the Students' Union.
- Events and meetings held off-campus which are funded by the University or the Students' Union, affiliated to the University or the Students' Union, or branded in a way that associates them with the University or the Students' Union.
Notification of meetings or events organised by students
Notification of meetings or events organised by students should be given to the Students’ Union at least 21 calendar days before the meeting or event is due to take place by completing this book an event form.
Notification of meetings or events organised by staff
The University captures information about external speakers through our Notification of Speakers form. This form allows staff to book a space, if necessary, and also alerts the University Secretary’s Office of the event taking place.
If your event falls into this category and includes an external speaker, it is your responsibility to notify the University Secretary of the event using the Notification of Speakers form.
The University Secretary’s Office will contact you if we need to discuss the event or if further information or clarification is required.
Notification of guest lecturers and speakers arranged by staff
The University Secretary’s Office will contact you if we need to discuss the event or if further information or clarification is required.
Our Policies and Procedures
We will ensure that there is no hindrance beyond the requirements of the law placed on a member of the University’s right to freedom of speech through any relevant policy or procedure.
Policy on notices and other information displayed and distributed on University premises
The Senior Management Team has approved the following policy on notices and other information displayed and distributed on University premises (including the premises of the Students' Union).
Policy on notices and materials displayed on University premises - March 2016
Raising a concern or a complaint
The University Freedom of Speech Code of Practice is owned by the University Secretary.
If you wish to raise a concern about the policy or its application, please contact the University Secretary by e-mail at: n.lefaou@londonmet.ac.uk
Alternatively our processes for reporting concerns can be found in the University's Complaints Procedure.