Controversial new powers for universities and student unions to be fined for failing to uphold Free Speech have been put on hold by the UK government.
Education Secretary, Bridget Phillipson said it would allow time to consider whether the law, which was due to come into force next week, would be repealed.
In the statement to parliament, Phillipson also said the regulator, the Office for Students (OfS) should be more sharply focused on the financial stability of universities.
A review of the OfS also, says the government and regulator should offer support and guidance to universities struggling financially.
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The Higher Education Freedom of Speech Act, which was passed last year, said universities had a duty to secure and promote the importance of freedom of speech and academic expression.
It would have allowed the OfS to fine or give sanctions to higher education providers and student unions in England from next week.
It also included a new complaints scheme for students, staff and visiting speakers, who could seek compensation if they suffer from a breach of a university’s free- speech obligations.
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