Worcester MP Robin Walker has called university Brexit letter an 'unfortunate misunderstanding'

The letter - sent by Conservative whip Chris Heaton-Harris - requested Professor David Green, vice-chancellor of the University of Worcester, supply information about professors teaching Brexit.

Mr Walker, who is also a Brexit minister, said he has spoken with Professor Green about the letter, saying: "I think he has slightly misconstrued the letter, I don’t think it was meant to be bullying in any way."

Mr Walker said he also spoke to Mr Heaton-Harris whilst clarifying the letter was not from the government.

“His point would be he did it in his capacity as an MP. I think it was for his personal use."

“He wanted to have a look at what material is out there. He was interested in information.

“I think he was a bit naïve not seeing that his letter would be interpreted in a different way.

“Universities should be havens of freedom of speech.”

The letter sent from Mr Heaton-Harris asked for the names of professors at the university who are involved in the teaching of European affairs, with particular reference to Brexit.

It also asked for a copy of the syllabus and any related material.

Professor Green had described the letter as sending a chill down his spine.

"I realised that his letter just asking for information appears so innocent but is really so, so dangerous," he said.

Mr Heaton-Harris tweeted on Tuesday (October 24): "To be absolutely clear, I believe in free speech in our universities and in having an open and vigorous debate on Brexit."