Protestors hit back at revised freedom of speech rules

Imperial's new freedom of speech policy has been criticised by protestors who feel the new rules around organising protests "puts students in a very vulnerable position." An Imperial College London spokesperson said: “Imperial recently revised its Freedom of Speech Code of Practice and established a new Events Procedure as part of its commitment to freedom of speech and debate." The Freedom of Speech Code of Practice, in action from August 2024, requires events where participants may not be able to enter or leave the premises safely comply with legal obligations, ensure that speeches and discussions are in "good order," or that a breach of the peace may occur, to register their event "at least two weeks" prior. The principal organiser of any event that breaches these guidelines must also give the name, department, CID, email, and phone number to the College through an online event proposal form.

The move has been met with criticism by activist group Imperial Action for Palestine. The group explained that previously they had liaised with security services to organise protests, but upon informing security in early October, they were told they now had to abide by the new Code of Practice and register their events via the form. However, the College has allowed events organised by the protestors to take place without the events procedure taking place.

A representative for the group said: "We as a group reject insinuations that any of the above are 'likely' to occur at any of our rallies or indeed have done in the past. This form also requires information to be given of 'principal organisers' which given the college's prior hostile conduct with student organisers puts students in a very vulnerable position. We have had to find sympathetic staff members to help us which has put a seemingly intentional block on our activities on campus."

Imperial updated its Freedom of Speech code due to the passing of the Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Act in 2023. Although it had received royal assent in 2023, it was paused following concerns regarding a statutory tort that would allow universities, and student unions to face legal action. However, the Labour government has removed the tort and has committed to enforcing the Act.

The Act requires universities to have "robust codes of practice" for the freedom of speech, enforced by the Office for Students. A new complaints system will also be introduced, and universities in breach of the rules may have to pay compensation, face fines, or have their registration suspended.

Similarly, NDAs will be banned over concerns of bullying, harassment, and sexual misconduct on campuses across the country, a move Imperial has already made according to its website.