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Written question asked by Matt Western (Labour) on Thursday, 31 March 2022, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 19 April 2022. It was answered by Michelle Donelan (Conservative) on Thursday, 28 April 2022 on behalf of the Department for Education.

Tony Sewell

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, whether he has had discussions with hon. Members who wrote to the University of Nottingham on the withdrawal of the honorary doctorate of Tony Sewell.

Answer

I am deeply disappointed by the University of Nottingham’s decision to withdraw the honorary doctorate it had previously intended to offer to Tony Sewell. Dr Sewell has a distinguished history of public service, including his work at Generating Genius and on the Commission on Race and Ethnic Disparities, and is entirely worthy of recognition. There can be no doubt that the University of Nottingham’s decision contributes to the chilling effect on freedom of speech on campus, as well as sending an implicit message to any students and staff at the university who hold views similar to Dr Sewell that the University is not a welcoming place for them.

As universities are independent and autonomous organisations, you should be aware that this matter is ultimately a decision for the University of Nottingham.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
151229
Session
2021-22
Subjects
University of Nottingham Sewell of Sanderstead, Lord
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk