[7] It is responsible both for administering the prevent duty and for ensuring that universities allow freedom of speech for controversial guest speakers.

[10] The OfS chair from 2021 to 2024 was Conservative peer James Wharton, who resigned following the 2024 General Election,[11] and the chief executive is Susan Lapworth.

[13] The appointment of Toby Young to the board, announced on 1 January 2018, generated controversy over his suitability for the post.

After criticism from leading Tory MPs, Young resigned on that day, claiming he had been turned into a caricature.

Shadow Education Secretary Kate Green questioned his experience and suitability for the role, calling his appointment "cronyism".

The purpose of the inquiry is to scrutinise its performance, its independence from and relationship with the Government, and whether it has the necessary expertise and resources to carry out its functions.