The vice-chancellor of a university in Buckinghamshire has been suspended after 'a number of serious allegations'.

The University of Buckingham is conducting an independent inquiry to look into claims against Professor James Tooley.

Professor Tooley said the unrevealed allegations are “baseless and malicious”.

His statement via Griffin Law went on: “I look forward to being vindicated in due course, but in accordance with the University’s processes, I am unable to comment further at this time.

“I remain, however, a committed advocate of free speech and academic freedom.”

In a letter, the university urged students not to contact Professor Tooley, the BBC reported.

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A University of Buckingham spokesperson said: “We can confirm a member of the university staff has been suspended due to a number of serious allegations.

“It is our intention that an independent inquiry be conducted to ascertain the veracity of these claims.

“We are unable to make any further comment until this investigation is completed.”

Professor Tooley was appointed vice-chancellor of the university in 2020.

He was professor of education policy at Newcastle University for two decades.