'Another Win for Bureaucracy!' Labour's Anti-Free Speech Strike Backfires

In Greater Manchester, the police visited Helen Jones, a 54-year-old grandmother, over her social media posts criticizing Labour councillors linked to a scandal. Despite no crime committed, officers cautioned her, sparking a debate on free speech in the UK. Director of the Free Speech Union, Lord Toby Young, criticized this "Orwellian" act typical of "Starmer's Britain," likening it to "thought police" tactics. As genuine threats face delayed responses, Young highlighted increasing public fear of punishment over mere expressions online. Greater Manchester Police defended their actions, citing a complaint duty amidst rising threats against local politicians.