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We can build a fairer society, where everyone can speak their mind freely

Mon, 14 Jan 2013

Coalition Government will accept a House of Lords amendment to remove the word ‘insulting’ from Section 5 of the Public Order Act.

Commenting, Liberal Democrat Home Affairs spokesperson, Julian Huppert said:

“Section 5 is a major constraint on free speech. It is simply wrong that someone can be threatened with prosecution simply for using language deemed to be insulting.
 
“Liberal Democrats have long campaigned to change this so we can build a fairer society, where everyone can speak their mind freely.
 
“I am delighted that the Coalition Government has now agreed with us and will bring an end to the current law. Abusive or threatening behaviour is still correctly illegal, but people should be able to say what they think.“

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