Britain’s free speech record is stumbling block in US trade negotiations

The US has warned that Keir Starmer’s government may need to reconsider Britain’s controversial hate speech laws if it hopes to secure a trade deal.

The warning follows comments from US Vice President JD Vance, who expressed optimism that a deal between the UK and US could be close, with the White House ‘working hard’ to make it a reality.

Speaking to UnHerd, Vance highlighted the strong cultural and economic ties between the two nations, but he also pointed to free speech laws as a key stumbling block.

Britain is reportedly willing to drop its proposed digital services tax to help secure a trade deal. However, the US insists that the UK also repeal hate speech laws and abandon plans for new online safety regulations.

Labour has made it clear that it is unwilling to make such concessions. A Downing Street source stated that the issue "is not part of the discussions."

Negotiations started last month following Sir Keir's visit to Donald Trump at the White House and gained momentum earlier this month with the announcement of tariffs. A

Although the tariffs have been paused for 90 days, there is hope that a deal can be reached before they take effect.

Tensions around free speech have escalated in recent months, particularly after US figures like Elon Musk launched attacks on Starmer’s government, following arrests over controversial social media posts.

The case of Isabel Vaughan-Spruce, arrested for silently praying outside an abortion clinic, has furthered US criticism of the UK’s approach to free speech and legal protections.

As talks progress, it remains unclear whether Starmer will alter the UK’s stance on free speech laws to meet US demands, or if the deal will falter over this contentious issue.