Britain's Freedom of Speech Crisis: Suella Braverman Pulls Out of Addressing Students

Ex-Home Secretary Warns of Freedom of Speech Crisis

Former Home Secretary Suella Braverman has raised concerns about a freedom of speech crisis in Britain after she was forced to cancel her address to students at Cambridge University. The event was deemed unsafe by the police due to potential protests from pro-Palestinian activists.

Protests Lead to Event Cancellation

The Cambridge for Palestine campaign group had called for supporters to 'no platform' the 'far right' Tory MP, resulting in Braverman pulling out of the event. She expressed frustration at being unable to address university Conservatives in a peaceful and legitimate manner.

Warning of Censorship

Braverman highlighted the challenges to freedom of speech, especially in higher education, stating that diverging from a left-wing perspective can lead to being labeled as 'far right' and facing cancellation. She expressed feeling 'gagged' and 'bullied into hiding away.'

Police Assessment and University Response

While authorities advised against Braverman's visit, Cambridgeshire police considered it to be 'low risk.' The university clarified that the event was not official and was only informed about it after its postponement, emphasizing its support for freedom of speech.