Labour’s Education Secretary, Bridget Phillipson, has come under fire after court documents revealed her first significant act in office was to undermine the Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Act—a law designed to tackle the growing free speech crisis at English universities.
The Act, which received cross-party support during the previous Parliament, was meticulously crafted to strengthen universities’ legal obligation to uphold and promote free speech.
Its key provisions, including two new enforcement mechanisms, were due to be implemented on 1st August.
However, when the election was called by Rishi Sunak before the legislation could be fully enforced, Ms Phillipson seized the opportunity to delay its implementation. According to court filings as part of the Free Speech Union’s (FSU) legal challenge, she moved swiftly to derail the Act upon Labour’s election victory, a move critics argue reflects Labour’s ideological disdain for free speech.
A Blow to Free Speech Protections
The Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Act was introduced to address what many see as an erosion of free speech in academic institutions. Its provisions included strict new obligations for universities to protect free speech and mechanisms to hold them accountable for failing to do so.
Ms Phillipson’s decision to shelve the legislation has drawn widespread criticism. Free speech advocates argue it demonstrates Labour’s indifference—or even hostility—towards open debate and academic freedom.
Court documents reveal the speed with which the Education Secretary acted, allegedly treating an Act of Parliament with disregard. The FSU has described her actions as “an affront to the principle that ministers may not set aside laws made by Parliament.”
Free Speech Union Challenges the Decision
The Free Speech Union has launched a legal challenge against the Education Secretary, claiming the government’s move to pause the Act is unlawful. In a statement, the FSU said:
“For almost 350 years, the governance of Britain has rested on the premise that ministers may not set aside laws made by Parliament. The right to free speech, as protected by our sovereign Parliament, cannot be treated with such contempt.”
The case will be heard in the High Court on 23rd January. The FSU is urging supporters to contribute to their legal crowdfunder to cover court costs and continue their fight to uphold free speech protections.
A Fundamental Question of Values
Critics argue that Ms Phillipson’s actions reveal Labour’s broader attitude towards free speech. Rather than seeing it as a cornerstone of democracy, they view it as a threat to the “sensitivities” of favoured groups, sidelining its importance in favour of ideological priorities.
“Free speech isn’t simply a low priority for Labour,” one critic remarked. “It’s something they actively dislike.”
A Call to Action
As the legal battle looms, the Free Speech Union is calling on the public to rally behind its cause. “Your support is now crucial in holding the government accountable for its shocking decision,” the FSU stated.
Donations to the crowdfunder will ensure the case is brought to court and help safeguard the principle that free speech must be protected in English universities.
The outcome of this case could have far-reaching implications, not just for academic institutions but for the future of free speech in the UK.
To find out more about the FSU’s efforts to challenge the government’s attempt to undermine the Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Act click here.
Your support is crucial in holding the government accountable for its shocking decision. Please go to: https://crowdjustice.com/case/help-rescue-freedom-of-speech/
