Cambridge academics win free speech row

Governing body backs amendments to free speech policy and ditches references to ‘respect’

Academics have won a high-profile vote on changes to the University of Cambridge’s free speech policy, securing an overwhelming majority.

Members of Cambridge’s governing body, known as Regent’s House, voted on proposed amendments to the university’s free speech policy after a group of academics known as the Campaign for Cambridge Freedom raised fears that a new policy could restrict academic freedom and put staff at risk of disciplinary action.