UK ‘in free fall’ on free speech, expert warns as British MP brands Trump admin grant ‘MAGA money meddling’
The US Embassy in London is offering up to $500,000 in grants intended to support shared US-UK values, including freedom of speech, due process and limited government. The move has prompted political disagreement in Britain, with Liberal Democrat MP Lisa Smart describing it as “MAGA money meddling in democracy”, while free-speech advocates argue the UK is experiencing a serious decline in expression rights.
The article cites Greg Lukianoff, president of the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression, who characterised the UK’s situation as a “free speech disaster”. The funding offer is presented as part of a wider Trump administration push on free speech, but its critics question whether US-backed grants should influence debate and civic institutions in the UK.
- US Embassy offers up to $500,000 for values-focused UK grants.
- A Liberal Democrat MP calls the funding political meddling.
- Free-speech campaigners warn Britain’s protections are weakening.