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<p>Education is a devolved matter, and the response outlines the information for England
only.</p><p>The government supports free speech which generates rigorous debate and
advances understanding.</p><p>It is the freedom to think independently, express and
challenge ideas, and put forward lawful, new and controversial ideas, that makes our
universities world-renowned. These are essential skills in a modern, forward-facing
society. It is this freedom that the government strives to protect.</p><p>The Higher
Education (Freedom of Speech) Bill has been introduced for this reason. The bill will
strengthen existing freedom of speech duties and directly address gaps within the
existing law. The bill also applies the duties directly to students’ unions and constituent
colleges, including those at the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge.</p><p>The changes
will introduce clear consequences for breaches of the new duties and ensure that these
principles are upheld.</p><p>The bill is currently passing through the House of Lords.</p>
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