Reform UK politicians should be barred from speaking on campus, say 35% of students

"The results show students' views on free issues tend to be nuanced and they sometimes seem contradictory. In particular, while the principle of free speech has stronger support from students than in the past, so do specific bans. While 35% said they would bar Reform politicians from speaking, that included 41% of those who said they voted for Reform in the 2024 general election."

"Today's students are more definite in their views than their predecessors. Confusingly, however, they offer stronger support for the principle of free speech while also being even keener to see specific barriers against free expression. I am shocked that more than one-in-three students support banning Reform UK from university campuses. The best way to take down democratic political parties that you disagree with is surely through free, fair and fierce debate whether that is on campus or beyond."

A Higher Education Policy Institute (Hepi) survey found contradictory student attitudes on free speech. Sixty-nine percent of students said universities should never limit free speech, yet many supported bans on specific political parties. Thirty-five percent would bar Reform UK from speaking, including 41% of respondents who said they voted for Reform in 2024. Sixteen percent wanted Labour barred, including 23% of Labour voters. Only 18% supported all parties being allowed to speak on campus. Hepi's director said students hold firmer views but combine stronger support for free-speech principles with increased backing for particular bans. Reform UK's deputy leader condemned the results and demanded funding cuts.

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