Parliamentary Debate on Free Speech in the UK

The Government must reform the Public Order Act to protect freedom of speech, MPs have warned during a debate in Parliament. Edward Leigh MP insisted that the Bill should be used to remove the word “insulting” from Section 5 of the Public Order Act, and listed numerous examples of people whose free speech had been restricted by the existing law.

These included Christian hoteliers from Liverpool Ben and Sharon Vogelenzang who were prosecuted after a Muslim guest complained she had been offended following a discussion about Islam.
Mr Leigh, a former chairman of the Public Accounts Committee, said: “I am sure we all agree that free speech is a bedrock of true democracy. It encompasses the freedom to disagree and to challenge received opinion.
“We might not like what someone says and we might take offence, but lively debate and a robust exchange of ideas are integral parts of a true democracy.”
Mr Leigh’s concerns were echoed by John Glen, Conservative MP for Salisbury, who said: “To voice one’s opinion without fear of punishment or censorship is a fundamental human right.   “Without it, political action and resistance to injustice and oppression are impossible. It is a precious right, and we must not allow it to be undermined.” We thank the Christian Institute for Reporting. Read more:

Source, text & 3 videos pf parliamentary debate: http://www.christian.org.uk/news/amend-section-5-to-protect-freedom-of-speech-mps-say/

Section 5 needs changing quickly, says Lib Dem MP: http://www.christian.org.uk/news/section-5-needs-changing-quickly-says-lib-dem-mp/?e281011