The UK government is rushing through new laws that could give it sweeping power over speech, reporting, and even what counts as “harmful” information.
Folks, I’m genuinely worried about what’s happening in the UK right now, as the Labour government has rushed through the National Security (State Threats) Act, which completed its parliamentary stages and received Royal Assent on July 8, 2026.
This bill grants the Home Secretary the power to designate state-backed organisations as “foreign power threat actors” under a framework modelled on terrorism proscription, rather than classifying them as terrorist organisations.
What makes this so urgent is how broad these powers could be. From the way the laws are written, journalists, NGOs, and even ordinary people could be at risk if they share information the government doesn’t like, especially on sensitive international issues.
If this happens, people won’t just lose access to certain opinions, but also to crucial reporting that challenges power. I cannot emphasise the seriousness of these shocking new developments, and why we need public pressure now.
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Timestamps:
(00:00:00) – Preview
(00:01:12) – Quick Scheduling Announcement
(00:02:18) – The consequences of the UK Government's New National Security (State Threats) Act
(00:17:28) – The UK government wants what it defines as "trusted" news sources promoted above the social media noise, pushing away independent sources
(00:25:13) – How did we get here and why have we allowed it as a society?00:28:03 – Why public pressure is essential to prevent erosion of free speech rights is now critically important, and how you can help
Episode Notes & Citations:
https://retortmedia.com/podcasts/ceoretort/2026/07/18/emergency-independent-journalists-and-ngos-face-potential-prosecution-under-uks-new-state-threats-terror-laws/
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