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<p>We have read the Conservative Party Human Rights Commission’s report with interest
and note its conclusions.</p><p>The UK values its relationship with China, and recognises
that education has an important role to play in providing opportunities for mutually
beneficial collaboration and partnerships between the two countries. Universities
are autonomous institutions and can choose who they cooperate with, including whether
to partner with Chinese Higher Education Institutions or Confucius Institutes.</p><p>We
encourage UK Higher education providers to work with international partners, including
from China. However, providers have duties to ensure that in doing so, freedom of
expression is protected for students and staff, and that the academic freedoms of
their staff are protected, by taking reasonable steps to ensure debates and discussions
can go ahead.</p><p>The government, with the support of key stakeholders in the higher
education sector, has worked alongside the Equalities and Human Rights Commission
to produce new guidance ‘Freedom of Expression: A Guide for Higher Education Providers
and Students’ Unions in England and Wales’.</p>
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