Joint Freedom of Speech statement
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 2024).
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 promote 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.
Examples of illegal speech
The University regards the following as examples of illegal speech:
(i) Speech that encourages or supports violence against specific groups or individuals.
(ii) Speech that encourages support for or participation in terrorism as defined by the Terrorism Act 2001.
(iii) Speech that encourages or supports any other form of criminal activity
Normally, speech that may cause offence to individuals or specific groups and is not illegal speech as defined in (i) and (ii) above, while not necessarily supported or encouraged by the University, will be permitted, although under certain circumstances only with appropriate mitigation (see section 3).
The University recognises that its legal duties must on occasion be balanced against one another, particularly with regard to our general duty of care to staff and students, and we will ensure that any decision taken is subject to a reasonableness test (for example; where a complaint is made about a speaker or event on the grounds of perceived harassment or offence). This will include an assessment of the potentially disproportionate impact upon those who are vulnerable snd protected under the Equality Act 2010.
While we will, as part of our duty of care to our students and staff, offer support to those who have been negatively impacted by the free expression of controversial or challenging ideas or views, we will not seek to prevent or sanction speech that is within the law.
We will also seek to ensure that our policies and procedures in this area reflect published best practice, such as the EHRC guidance to universities on freedom of expression.
The University's statement on Academic Freedom, while closey linked with our freedom of speech statement and policy, is defined under a separate agreement.
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
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.
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.
How complaints will be reviewed
If you raise a concern to raise a concern about the Freedom of Speech policy or its application directly with the University Secretary, they will carry out an initial assessment to determine the scope of any investigation. They will inform you of the outcome of our assessment.
You may be required to attend additional meetings in order to provide further information or clarify your concerns.
In some cases the University Secretary (with advice from HR, and where appropriate legal counsel) may appoint an appropriate investigator(s) with relevant experience or specialist knowledge of the subject matter. The investigator(s) may make recommendations to support the determinaion of next steps and support learning where relevant.
The nature of the complaint will depend on what, if any, informaton we share with the person raising the complaint. You should treat any information about the investigation as confidential.
We will keep an internal record of all concerns raised under this policy, and the outcome of any investigations.