Free speech tsar issues warning to universities about overseas arrangements
Universities in England could be told to terminate their arrangements with foreign countries if freedom of speech and academic freedom is undermined, the Government’s free speech tsar has said.
Professor Arif Ahmed, director for freedom of speech and academic freedom at the Office for Students (OfS), said many universities and colleges in England have “international arrangements” – including admitting overseas students on scholarships and hosting institutes partly funded by foreign governments.
The watchdog believes there is a “possibility of concerns relating to freedom of speech” in these relationships, Prof Ahmed said.
His comments came as the higher education regulator launched a consultation on guidance about freedom
