“The University of Hong Kong is committed to the core principle of ‘one country, two systems’ under the Basic Law. It expects its staff and students to obey the law and to be aware of their responsibilities and the consequences of their actions,” Zhang said, reading aloud a written statement during an open dialogue with students on Wednesday, when the issue was raised.

“The university’s senior management is opposed to Hong Kong independence.”

Whilst saying he had full respect for academic freedom, Zhang said the school did not wish its campus “to be a platform for political advocacy” and to become politically divided.

Students criticised Zhang’s predecessor, Professor Peter Mathieson, saying he undermined free speech when he co-signed a statement with the heads of nine other universities, opposing independence.

Asked by a student whether he would have signed the statement if he had been head of HKU at that time, Zhang said: “I cannot put my time back to the time but let me hypothetically answer that question: Yes, very simple.”

The new head reiterated the importance of institutional autonomy and added: “We have our own judgment [and] thinking. I think you will see our actions later on.”

Zhang also fended off allegations that under his leadership the prestigious university would solely focus on fostering collaboration with mainland Chinese institutions.

Noting HKU’s goal of internationalising, Zhang said the school should be the bridge between the West and China. He said the opportunity to be such a bridge “could not be missed” amid the rise of higher education on the mainland.

Davin Wong, president of the HKU student union, said he was disappointed by Zhang’s answer regarding free speech.

“I would expect him to illustrate more how he would defend freedom of speech at HKU or clearly suggest the notion of Hong Kong independence should be allowed to be discussed on campus,” he said.

He said politics should not be taken off the table on campus.