To ask Her Majesty's Government what steps they are taking to ensure that universities remain operational throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
Answered on
14 October 2020
Higher education providers are autonomous institutions and will make their own judgements based on the latest public health guidance, taking account of the need to minimise risk to staff and students.
On 10 September, we issued updated guidance for providers on reopening campuses, which takes account of the latest scientific advice from the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies. The guidance is available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/higher-education-reopening-buildings-and-campuses/higher-education-reopening-buildings-and-campuses.
We have worked with universities to ensure that they all have response plans in light of COVID-19, including issuing best practice guidance. All response plans have been, or are being, agreed with local Directors of Public Health. The plans cover a range of scenarios and ensure that providers are prepared to respond quickly to a COVID-19 outbreak in their university or wider community.