If it is only studding, it should be fine to remove, the span doesn't look too big between the two outside walls. **HOWEVER** I have seen all kinds of building techniques and wouldn't go whacking away at it without being sure what was behind the plaster.
You won't do any damage if you carefully remove the plasterwork to reveal the timber framing. Anything larger than 4x2" or doubled up might be structural. You may need to take down the ceiling if the joists overlap at the studding and are supported from below.
If you're a rank amatuer, get professinal advice. Get 2 or 3 quotes from a builder/carpenter, at the very least you'll need someone to make good where the studding hits the external walls.