Is freedom of speech being silenced at University of Kent and Canterbury Christ Church University? | Students and lecturers alike are divided on whether Kent has a free speech problem. Scroll down to take part in our poll The University of Kent at Canterbury. Picture: Chris Davey The debate has ramped up after the government announced 'landmark proposals to strengthen free speech at universities.' The education secretary, Gavin Williamson, has warned against âunacceptable silencing and censoringâ at university campuses as he unveiled tougher measures such as appointing a Free Speech Champion to investigate whether situations of no-platformed speakers or dismissed academics are unlawful.