UJS are pleased that freedom of speech and No Platform are a major topic of discussion during today’s Limmud Festival and welcome the Minister raising the issue today.

These matters are very close to the hearts of Jewish students. UJS has been at the forefront in the student movement in fighting antisemitism, racism, fascism and discrimination and has long been a leader in advocating clear and explicit No Platform policies.

Responding to Jo Johnson’s comments at Limmud Festival today, UJS Campaigns Manager Liron Velleman said: ‘We welcome the comments today that seek to ensure that university campuses remain a place where student are able to have a free exchange of ideas. No platform policies for those who continue to threaten or incite violence continue to be an important tool against fascism used by NUS, Students’ Unions and student groups. Additionally, we have welcomed the increased focus in recent years on a duty of care for students and the introduction of external speaker guidelines by many institutions. Freedom of speech on campus is a fundamental democratic right but there continues to be a role for clear and precise No Platform policies to be used in the fight against violent racism, fascism and other forms of discrimination.’