Law may change to end no-platforming

UNIVERSITIES could be made to fund security for controversial speakers on campus in order to protect freedom of speech, the universities minister said.

Michelle Donelan said the Government had not ruled out “legislative change” to prevent no-platforming through the back door by placing security costs on to student societies.

The Jewish Society at Lancaster University was asked to pay £1,500 last year to cover security for an event with Mark Regev, the Israeli ambassador, in anticipation of protests. The event was cancelled as the society could not pay.

Speaking to the education select committee, Ms Donelan said universities were required by law to protect freedom of speech but the Government would not hesitate to legislate further if rules were not followed.

The minister added: “We’re not excluding legislative change … this is one of our top priorities.”