Free Speech at Work

In the UK, all people have a legal right to freedom of expression under the Human Rights Act 1998. But this right is not absolute, and is limited in the workplace to prevent harm and to protect others. Employers must strike a careful balance between the need to prevent discrimination, harassment and disruption to the workplace, and an individual's right to express their view, even ones that are considered controversial. So how far does the law protect the expression of controversial beliefs in the workplace? On this episode of Cross Examination, Tom is joined by: Robert Lewis, partner in the Employment Department of legal firm Mishcon de Reya, and head of its education group specialising in legal issues around academic freedom, safeguarding students and staff, discrimination and crisis investigations in universities and schools. Robert is also a school governor, former teacher and has just finished a term as co-chair of the Industrial Law Society. James Murray, higher education and professional rights partner at Doyle Clayton Solicitors. He's also a member of Kellogg College at the University of Oxford, having been an academic visitor there last year, and is currently writing a book on academic freedom and free speech on campus for Cambridge University Press. Cross Examination is written and presented by Tom Cross KC. Produced by Basil Oxtoby and Alex Rees https://www.crossexamination.co.uk/