UK Revives Controversial Free Speech Law

Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson announced the revival of parts of the Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Act, which had been paused by the Labour government last July. The revised legislation will eliminate the legal tort that allowed individuals to seek damages for perceived violations of free speech on campuses, aiming to reduce potential costly litigation for universities. While the act will maintain measures requiring educational institutions to promote free speech, it will limit the jurisdiction over student unions and focus on a complaints scheme managed by the Office for Students. Critics, including some academics and student organizations, have expressed concerns that the original provisions could enable hate speech and complicate the regulatory environment for universities. Phillipson emphasized the need to protect lawful free speech while addressing the financial burdens that the act could impose on institutions. The government will review how the act may be adapted to ensure it remains workable.