Farage demands apology over Savile comparison after a Labour minister accused him of siding with sex offenders. Technology Secretary Peter Kyle claimed opposing the Online Safety Act aligned Reform UK with predators like Jimmy Savile.
Nigel Farage called the remarks “disgusting” and challenged Labour’s integrity. Kyle refused to retract his statement, insisting critics of the law enable harmful content. The row highlights growing tensions over internet regulation.
The new law enforces age checks and fines for tech firms failing to block harmful material. Reform UK argues it pushes children toward dangerous VPNs and dark web exposure. Zia Yusuf, a senior Reform figure, called the act “deeply unserious” about child safety.
Meanwhile, Farage demands apology over Savile comparison, accusing Labour of exploiting victims for political gain. Savile, was posthumously exposed as a serial abuser. Kyle’s remarks drew condemnation for invoking his crimes.
Since the law’s introduction, VPN downloads spiked as users bypass age restrictions. Yusuf warned this exposes minors to greater risks. Kyle admitted loopholes exist but defended the act as progress. He vowed to address gaps while maintaining free speech protections.
Conservative MP Katie Lam criticized the law after X (formerly Twitter) age-blocked her speech on grooming gangs. She accused the state of prioritizing censorship over child protection. Former Tory leader Kemi Badenoch had also opposed the bill in 2022, calling it overreach.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer defended the act during talks with Donald Trump, denying censorship claims. He framed it as safeguarding children from suicide and pornographic content. However, Farage demands apology over Savile comparison, branding Labour’s stance hypocritical.
Reform UK pledges to repeal the act if elected, though Farage admits no “perfect” alternative exists. The party vows to consult tech experts for better solutions. As debates rage, critics question whether the law balances safety and freedom effectively.
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