A significant proportion of British university students believe the right-wing party Reform UK should be barred from speaking at campus events, according to a major new survey. The findings highlight a complex and sometimes contradictory landscape of attitudes towards free speech in higher education.
Survey Reveals Deep Divisions on Campus Speech
The poll, conducted by Savanta in November 2025 for the Higher Education Policy Institute (HEPI), surveyed 1,012 undergraduate students. It found that more than one in three (35%) believe Reform UK should not be allowed to speak at university events.
This figure stands in contrast to views on other political parties. The survey indicates that 16% of students would ban the Labour Party from speaking, while 12% said the same for the Conservatives. Smaller proportions supported bans for the Green Party (7%) and the Liberal Democrats (6%).
HEPI Director Nick Hillman expressed shock at the result concerning Reform UK. He stated, "The best way to take down democratic political parties that you disagree with is surely through free, fair and fierce debate – whether that is on campus or beyond."
Strong Support for Free Speech Laws Amid Growing Intolerance Concerns
Paradoxically, the survey also revealed robust overall support for the principle of free speech. A large majority of students, 69%, agree that universities should never restrict free speech, a figure that has risen slightly in recent years.
Furthermore, 71% of respondents said they support the law introduced last year that requires universities and colleges to actively promote free speech and academic freedom. Under this legislation, the higher education regulator, the Office for Students, can investigate institutions and impose fines if they are found to have failed in protecting these rights.
Despite this, nearly half of the students (47%) agreed that universities are becoming less tolerant of diverse viewpoints. This perception has grown dramatically, having almost doubled since 2016 when only 24% held the same opinion.
Balancing Protection with Expression
The poll delved into the nuanced tension between safeguarding individuals and upholding free expression. An overwhelming majority, 90% of students, feel personally able to express their views without hindrance on campus.
Most students (83%) also reported at least somewhat satisfactory protection at their university from discrimination or emotional harm. However, a substantial majority of 63% agreed or strongly agreed that protection from discrimination and ensuring the dignity of minorities can be more important than unlimited freedom of expression.
Reform UK Deputy Leader Richard Tice responded fiercely to the survey's findings, calling them "appalling." He accused universities of abandoning genuine learning and debate to become "echo chambers of far-left indoctrination run by activist academics." He called on the government to pull grant funding unless the culture changes urgently.
The results present a challenging picture for university leaders, who must now navigate these conflicting student expectations while complying with legal duties to protect free speech, all against a backdrop of heightened political and social tensions.
