In theory, Heriot-Watt defends freedom of speech and also seems keen to support all aspects of the Equality Act of 2010 - which of course includes the pro-life position as either a philosophical or religious belief.
Heriot-Watt stipulates that the “right to freedom of expression is not unlimited”, but it seeks to ensure that “good relations between individuals are encouraged.” Subsequently, freedom of expression has to be “set in the context of the University’s values and the values of a democractic and inclusive society” and speakers should “be sensitive to its increasingly diverse and inclusive community.”
It’s main objective, it states, is to “fulfill its legal obligations with regard to speakers and events, while maintaining at all times its commitment to freedom of speech and academic freedom.” Therefore, it would only require certain conditions to be met, or refuse permission to an event,
when it reasonably believes that “there is a demonstrable and serious risk that the speaker and/or those at an event may break the law, cause the University to breach its statutory responsibilities– (including the need to prevent people being drawn into terrorism) - and/or is reasonably likely to pose a demonstrable and significant risk to the wellbeing of students, staff or visitors…”
The University also states that “equality and diversity is all about maximising potential and creating a culture of inclusion for all.” It also points out that there are “legal drivers for our activity”, foremost the Equality Act of 2010. As a result of this, Heriot-Watt have focused on “a Culture of Inclusion for All.”
It’s main objective, it states, is to “fulfill its legal obligations with regard to speakers and events, while maintaining at all times its commitment to freedom of speech and academic freedom.” Therefore, it would only require certain conditions to be met, or refuse permission to an event,
when it reasonably believes that “there is a demonstrable and serious risk that the speaker and/or those at an event may break the law, cause the University to breach its statutory responsibilities– (including the need to prevent people being drawn into terrorism) - and/or is reasonably likely to pose a demonstrable and significant risk to the wellbeing of students, staff or visitors…”
The University also states that “equality and diversity is all about maximising potential and creating a culture of inclusion for all.” It also points out that there are “legal drivers for our activity”, foremost the Equality Act of 2010. As a result of this, Heriot-Watt have focused on “a Culture of Inclusion for All.”