Uni minister in free speech row over ‘Jihadi John’ group
A MINISTER has sparked fury by signalling an extremist group which allegedly inspired IS executioner Jihadi John has the right to free speech.
Universities Minister Sam Gyimah was accused of “a worrying lack of judgment” after indicating speakers representing Hizb-utTahir may still visit campuses.
Quizzed over the “no-platforming” of controversial groups, he said: “Universities have a duty to take reasonable steps to ensure freedom of speech. The Government does not support blanket no-platforming.” Labour’s Jo Stevens said: “It’s a threat to security and offensive to common decency to say free speech means the freedom to promote terror.” ■ A major survey for the Edelman Trust Barometer shows seven in 10 Brits think Facebook is failing to tackle the spread of jihadi propaganda.