British Prime Minister Theresa May AFP/Getty

A privacy group has criticised Theresa May over hints that she will continue with plans to ‘clamp down’ on internet services – despite failing to win a majority in last week’s election.

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In a speech after the election, May promised to ‘give the police and the authorities the powers they need to keep our country safe’ – which some have interpreted as doubling down on her promises to ‘regulate’ the internet.

Policies which have been discussed include the idea of forcing internet companies to weaken encryption on messaging products – and automated censorship of certain content, such as Islamic extremist content.

Executive Director of Open Rights Group, Jim Killock, says, ‘To push on with these extreme proposals for Internet clampdowns would appear to be a distraction from the current political situation and from effective measures against terror.


Theresa May (Picture Getty)

‘The Government already has extensive surveillance powers. Conservative proposals for automated censorship of the Internet would see decisions about what British citizens can see online being placed in the hands of computer algorithms, with judgments ultimately made by private companies rather than courts. Home Office plans to force companies to weaken the security of their communications products could put all of us at a greater risk of crime.



‘Both of these proposals could result in terrorists and extremists switching to platforms and services that are more difficult for our law enforcement and intelligence agencies to monitor.

‘It could be tempting to push ahead in order to restore some of Theresa May’s image as a tough leader. This should be resisted. With such a fragile majority, greater consensus will be needed to pass new laws.