Bernie Spofforth - The Chilling Effect of UK Speech Laws

Bernie Spofforth - The Chilling Effect of UK Speech Laws

In this episode, Bernie Spofforth joins us to recount her shocking arrest over a single tweet, shedding light on the UK government's increasing surveillance of online activity. From her initial foray into social media during Brexit and COVID-19 to facing 36 hours in custody, Bernie exposes the chilling realities of the Online Safety Bill and the unchecked authority of Ofcom. She discusses the pivotal role of the Free Speech Union in supporting her through this ordeal and warns of the broader implications for civil liberties in the UK and beyond. With new monitoring units targeting sensitive topics like immigration, Bernie’s story serves as a stark reminder of the fragile state of free expression in an increasingly controlled digital landscape. Join us for a compelling conversation about government overreach, the power of unelected bodies, and the urgent need to protect open discourse.

Bernie Spofforth is a British businesswoman and social media commentator known for her outspoken views on free speech, government policy, and civil liberties. With a background in business management, she gained prominence on platforms like X for engaging in public discourse during Brexit and the COVID-19 pandemic. Her arrest in 2024 over a tweet sparked widespread debate, highlighting the UK’s tightening grip on online expression. Supported by the Free Speech Union, Bernie continues to advocate for transparency and the protection of free speech against growing legislative threats like the Online Safety Bill.

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