This morning, Reform UK announced its intention to repeal the Online Safety Act, a law designed to regulate harmful digital content. The party called the legislation “the most severe restriction on free expression in modern history” and argued it fails to safeguard minors, as some users evade age checks through technical workarounds. The proposal has drawn strong reactions, as public polls indicate broad support for measures against harmful online material, though it resonates with certain libertarian groups.
Science Secretary Peter Kyle responded sharply in a broadcast interview. He accused Nigel Farage of effectively supporting figures who distribute explicit or abusive content, stating:
"Minors should not be exposed to harmful, violent, or sexually explicit material without consent. For years, the internet operated without proper oversight. That era ended under this administration. The Online Safety Act represents progress, and those who oppose it must justify their stance."
Kyle’s remarks grew more pointed when referencing Farage’s stance:
"Farage has openly vowed to dismantle these protections. Those who profit from extreme content—whether hateful, violent, or pornographic—now have him as an ally. Let’s be clear: individuals committing crimes like Jimmy Savile’s would exploit today’s digital platforms. Farage stands with them, not with children."
Pressed on whether he was directly associating Farage with such figures, Kyle reiterated:
"The law prevents unsupervised contact between minors and strangers online. Age verification limits exposure to harmful material. Farage would undo these safeguards, returning to a time when adults could freely reach out to children through unchecked messaging apps. Every existing protection for young people is at risk under his proposal."
The interviewer characterized the argument as a "broad interpretation."
Meanwhile, attention today will center on a cabinet meeting led by Prime Minister Keir Starmer regarding Gaza. Further updates are expected.
The ongoing U.S. election developments will also be monitored closely.
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