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Freedom of speech within the law

The University has a code of practice that underpins its commitment to freedom of speech within the law.  The code is available on the policies and procedures page of the University’s governance website.  This code replaces a previous version that had been put in place to meet the requirements of the Education Act 1986.

The aims of the code are: to provide guidance on freedom of speech within the law; to ensure that any restrictions are kept to a minimum; and to outline measures that might be put in place to support freedom of speech in circumstances where there may be concerns about the maintenance of order or health and safety.

Annex A of the code sets out procedures for student and Kent Union bookings.

An annual report of the operation of the code is submitted to Council every year. The report for 2015-16 is available here.