Vance decries free speech barriers in Europe during British PM visit

VP JD Vance Sparks Controversy with Remarks on Free Speech in Europe

Things got awkward when Vice President JD Vance remarked on his previous comments on Britain’s free speech environment, just feet away from British Prime Minister Keir Starmer during an Oval Office meeting.

Vance doubled down on his comments at the Munich Security Conference earlier this month when he said he feared that free speech was “in retreat” in Europe.

Vance stood by his remarks, expressing concerns about the erosion of free speech in Europe. He criticized what he perceived as a suppression of alternative viewpoints under the guise of tackling misinformation and disinformation.

During a meeting at the White House with President Donald Trump and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Vance reiterated his stance on the issue. He emphasized the importance of protecting free speech not only in the UK but also for American citizens and technology companies.

Starmer, sitting beside Trump during the meeting, defended the UK’s commitment to free speech, asserting that it has been a longstanding principle in the country.

While Vance highlighted specific instances of free speech infringement in Europe, Starmer reassured that the UK values and upholds the right to free expression.

Vance’s remarks at the Munich Security Conference drew attention to a case involving a British army veteran who was prosecuted for praying silently outside an abortion clinic. He criticized the imposition of buffer zones and restrictions on private prayer, citing it as an example of curtailed free speech.

Trump shakes hands with Starmer at the White House. (Carl Court/Pool via AP)

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The discussion at the Oval Office highlighted the divide between the US and Europe on free speech issues, underscoring the need for continued dialogue and collaboration to protect this fundamental right.