Beloff masterclass lecture: Advancing legal thought on free speech

As part of the University’s 50th Anniversary celebrations, Adolfo Paolini, Dean of Law, was honoured to host a distinguished Masterclass Lecture delivered by Michael Beloff KC, entitled “But you can’t say that! – How free is speech on campus?”. The event welcomed an audience of over 60 attendees, including students, academic colleagues, members of the legal profession, and the wider community, and was further distinguished by the presence of the University Chancellor, Dame Mary Archer.

Held in the Vinson Building Auditorium, the lecture provided a timely and authoritative exploration of freedom of expression – one of the most enduring yet contested principles within modern legal systems. Drawing on his exceptional career at the Bar, Mr Beloff KC offered a rigorous analysis of the legal foundations of free speech, its necessary limits, and the increasing pressures it faces in today’s complex social and regulatory environment.

The occasion also carried particular historical and institutional significance. Michael Beloff KC follows in the distinguished academic tradition of his father, Professor Max Beloff, the eminent historian and legal scholar who served as Principal of University College Buckingham. Hosting the lecture during the University’s anniversary year provided a fitting opportunity to reflect on Professor Beloff’s enduring legacy and reaffirmed the University’s commitment to intellectual independence, academic excellence, and open debate.

Throughout the lecture, Mr Beloff encouraged critical reflection on the balance between protecting freedom of expression and addressing concerns such as harm, regulation, and public interest. His insights compellingly bridged legal theory and practice, illustrating how these challenges arise before the courts and within public life, and offering valuable perspectives for future lawyers, scholars, and policymakers.

Student Representative Dipanjali Samoo (Full-Time LLB) reflected on the impact of the lecture:

“What made the lecture particularly compelling was Mr Beloff’s ability to ground abstract legal principles in real-world scenarios that resonated deeply with his audience. He unpacked the tension between institutional duty, academic freedom, and the limits of lawful expression in a way that was both accessible and intellectually stimulating. Far from delivering a dry legal recitation, he engaged the room with wit, precision, and a genuine enthusiasm for debate that made every point land with impact.

Perhaps even more impressive was his approachability outside of the formal lecture setting. I am also most grateful for the opportunity the Law School extended to me to join Mr Beloff for dinner. That kind of access is rare, and I was very conscious of how fortunate I was to have it. What struck me most in that setting was just how approachable he was. He answered every question with real openness and generosity. It is the kind of encounter that genuinely stays with you.

I cannot thank the Law School enough for making this experience possible. It is exactly this kind of engagement, with world-class practitioners who remain committed to education and open discourse, that enriches university life and reminds us why these conversations matter.”

Following the lecture, Mr Beloff KC generously engaged with attendees during a book‑signing reception, providing an opportunity for further discussion and informal exchange. This added a personal and memorable dimension to an evening that celebrated both legal scholarship and the University’s rich intellectual heritage.

The Law School is deeply grateful to Mr Beloff KC for contributing his time and expertise to this landmark event. The Masterclass exemplified the University of Buckingham’s tradition of rigorous legal inquiry and meaningful engagement with the profession and stood as a highlight of our 50th Anniversary year.