London: The British government on Wednesday said it remains committed to protecting free speech, responding to a move by the United States to impose visa bans on individuals involved in anti-disinformation campaigns.

A government spokesperson said that while countries are entitled to determine their own visa policies, the UK supports legal frameworks and institutions aimed at ensuring the internet remains open yet protected from serious harm.

The spokesperson underlined that free expression must be balanced with safeguards against the misuse of digital platforms, noting that social media should not be used to circulate child sexual abuse material, incite hatred or violence, or deliberately spread false information and manipulated videos. The statement reflects the UK’s broader position of defending free speech while endorsing regulation to address the most damaging forms of online content.

The remarks come amid growing international debate over how governments should tackle disinformation without undermining fundamental freedoms, as tensions rise over the role of activists, tech companies and state authorities in shaping online discourse.
(With AFP inputs)