Nigel Farage Free Speech Crusade: Reform UK Leader Urges US to Oppose UK Laws in Washington Testimony

The Nigel Farage free speech crusade has now gone international. The Reform UK leader spoke to US politicians in Washington DC. He urged them to oppose the British government. He specifically targeted UK free speech laws. Furthermore, he dramatically compared the UK to North Korea. He was giving evidence to a US congressional committee. The hearing focused on European laws threatening American speech rights.

Farage cited several high-profile cases. He mentioned writer Graham Linehan’s recent arrest. Also, he spoke about a woman jailed for a racist tweet. He called the UK’s situation really awful and authoritarian. Consequently, he asked US politicians and businesses to act. He wants them to tell the British government it is simply wrong.

His appearance drew fierce criticism back home. Labour’s Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds responded strongly. He said jetting off to badmouth the UK is anti-British. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer also accused him. He said Farage flew to America to talk down our country. He added that Farage is lobbying for sanctions that harm working people.

In his written recommendations, Farage suggested US action. He said the US should use diplomacy and trade. This would defend its position on free speech against the UK. However, he later insisted he was not calling for sanctions. Instead, he wants honest conversations with the UK.

The Nigel Farage free speech crusade focused on recent events. He highlighted Graham Linehan’s arrest at Heathrow. He warned this could happen to any American visiting the UK. Then, he asked when Britain became North Korea. He also discussed the jail sentence given to Lucy Connolly. Moreover, he called it living proof of what can go wrong.

He heavily criticised the Online Safety Act. This law was originally drawn up by the Conservatives. The Labour government then passed it. The law aims to make the internet safer for users. It sets rules for online platforms like Facebook and X. Furthermore, it requires companies to protect kids from harmful material. It also mandates taking down illegal content.

Farage told the committee protecting kids is important. He admitted he doesn’t have all the answers. But he said the act gives Ofcom extraordinary powers. He pledged his party would repeal it if elected. The Labour government has defended the bill. They call it a huge step forward for internet safety.

Republicans on the committee praised Farage. President Donald Trump later hosted him in the Oval Office. Farage posted a picture with the caption “It’s good to be back.” But Democrats gave him a much tougher reception.

Congressman Jamie Raskin delivered a sharp critique. He labelled Farage a Putin-loving free speech impostor. He warned the UK about Trump’s record on freedom. Also, he questioned Reform UK’s own free speech record. He noted the party prevented its councillors from speaking to a local newspaper.

Farage said he regularly takes questions from journalists. He said he would chat with the Nottinghamshire council leader. The Nigel Farage free speech crusade continues to generate intense debate and controversy on both sides of the Atlantic.

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