Universities UK today attended the meeting hosted at Downing Street by the Prime Minister and the Secretary of State for Education, to discuss tackling antisemitism and harassment on campus.
Speaking after the meeting, the Chief Executive of Universities UK, Vivienne Stern MBE, said:
Today UUK and some of our Vice Chancellor members had a positive meeting with Government and the UJS on antisemitism. I welcomed the opportunity to have a frank discussion with government ministers about how we can work together to avoid an escalation of campus tensions.
Universities have taken the rise in antisemitism on campuses since October 7 very seriously and will continue to work hard to ensure the safety of Jewish staff and students. The current conflict has raised tensions across many communities and we have been clear there is no place for intolerance on our campuses.
In line with the sector’s clear commitment to freedom of speech, it is important that universities allow and support students and staff to debate and discuss this crisis, and the challenging issues it raises, but within the law, and with respect and tolerance.