University Policy Regarding External Speakers
EMG has discussed the Department for Education and Skills recent advice to universities on promoting good campus relations, and agreed that we make clear to all staff and students the University’s policy regarding external speakers.
Statute XXI enshrines the right of the University’s academic staff to ‘have freedom within the law to question and test received wisdom, and to put forward new ideas and controversial or unpopular opinions’
External speakers should normally be offered the same freedom of expression, with two exceptions noted below
- Facilities will not be provided for speakers who advocate or incite unlawful racial hatred or discrimination on the grounds of race, religion, sex, class, sexual orientation, age, disability or special need.
- Facilities will not be provided for speakers who advocate or incite violence or harassment of any individual or group, or damage to property.
Agreed by Executive Management Group
February 2007