In a significant exchange at the Oval Office on Thursday, U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer confronted U.S. Vice President JD Vance regarding comments that criticized Britain’s approach to freedom of speech. Vance suggested that the U.K.’s regulatory stance could have repercussions for American companies and citizens.
Starmer stands firm on UK’s commitment to free speech
During a meeting with President Donald Trump, Vance addressed reporters, emphasizing the importance of the “special relationship” between the U.K. and the U.S. However, he warned about what he described as overreaching tech regulations that could infringe upon free speech. He stated, “We also know that there have been infringements on free speech that actually affect not just the British — of course what the British do in their own country is up to them — but also affect American technology companies and, by extension, American citizens.”
Starmer, undeterred, responded assertively to Vance’s comments. Leaning forward, he clarified that his administration would not interfere with the rights of U.S. citizens. He stated, “But in relation to free speech in the U.K. I’m very proud of our history there. We’ve had free speech for a very, very long time in the United Kingdom and it will last for a very, very long time.”
Transatlantic tensions over tech regulation
This exchange occurs amidst intense discussions across the Atlantic regarding technology regulation, with the U.S. urging the U.K. and EU to reconsider stringent rules affecting artificial intelligence and social media platforms. Additionally, prominent figures, including Trump adviser Elon Musk, have been vocal critics of Starmer’s government, particularly regarding its handling of far-right riots that occurred in the U.K. last year and Starmer’s tenure as the country’s leading public prosecutor.
Vance’s remarks also follow statements from U.S. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, who criticized the British government for allegedly requesting Apple to create a backdoor in its encryption for enhanced access to user data. In response to these pressures, Apple recently opted to remove its most advanced data security tool for users in the U.K.