Universities UK responded today to the publication of Lord Woolf's inquiry into the London School of Economics and Political Science's (LSE) links with Libya.

In March 2011, the LSE council asked Lord Woolf to conduct an independent inquiry to establish the full facts of the School’s links with Libya, whether errors had been made, and to establish clear guidelines for international donations to and links with the School.

Professor Eric Thomas, President of Universities UK, said: “We all can learn from the outcomes of this inquiry. Universities do already consider the ethical and political implications of any financial engagement, and that must continue, and in particular, factor in the likelihood of future political and social changes. Universities have procedures and codes of ethics and accountability, agreed with their governing bodies, in approaching these complex decisions. Clear and transparent processes for making these decisions are essential, and existing arrangements must be reviewed on a regular basis.
 
“There are established cultural and business links between the UK and countries overseas and it is essential that we continue to engage internationally. Indeed, Lord Woolf endorses seeking philanthropic support as a justifiable and appropriate activity for universities. Universities will continue to engage widely in terms of securing international financial investment.

“Philanthropy is a growing and increasingly significant income stream for the UK higher education sector. In this context it is important that the practice of fundraising and the relationships between institutions and donors respect inherent principles associated with the higher education sector. Universities UK endorsed guidelines for UK higher education institutions by CASE Europe published earlier this year.”

1. The LSE’s response and the full Woolf Inquiry report can be downloaded from the LSE website

2. The CASE (the Council for Advancement and Support of Education) Europe guidelines for UK Higher Education Institutions were published in September 2011. More information is available on the Universities UK website