Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, has pledged to repeal the UK’s Online Safety Act, describing it as a “dystopian” infringement on free speech. His commitment follows the recent enforcement of age verification requirements under the act, which have led to noticeable changes in users’ social media feeds. Farage argues that the legislation constitutes state censorship, drawing parallels to authoritarian regimes like China.
The Online Safety Act, passed in 2023, mandates age checks on platforms such as X (formerly Twitter), Reddit, and TikTok to protect children from harmful content, including pornography and material related to self-harm or suicide. While child safety advocates support the act, critics contend that it grants the government excessive control over speech.
Reform UK figures, including Zia Yusuf, have expressed concerns that the act could push youth towards the dark web. Elon Musk and far-right activists have also voiced opposition, prompting speculation about Reform UK’s motivations, which Farage has denied. He reaffirmed a past disagreement with Musk over political alliances but described Musk as a free speech “hero.”
Farage’s growing political profile has strained his relationship with former ally Donald Trump, whom he did not meet during the U.S. president’s UK visit. He stated that as the leader of the opposition in Britain, meeting Trump was challenging due to his own political commitments.
The debate over the Online Safety Act highlights the ongoing tension between protecting children online and preserving free speech. As the act continues to be enforced, discussions about its implications for digital rights and government oversight are expected to intensify.
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