Nigel Farage faces accusations of double standards for blocking journalists before his trip to the US to discuss free speech. In a move reminiscent of Donald Trump, the Reform leader in Nottingham County Council restricted access for local reporters to party press releases and interviews with him and 40 council members. This restriction on critical voices coincides with Farage’s upcoming visit to the US to address Congress on the topic of free speech.
During his US visit, Farage is anticipated to advocate for Lucy Connolly, who was convicted of inciting hatred and violence by suggesting setting fire to migrant hotels. Farage emphasized that Connolly, who portrayed herself as a “political prisoner” upon release from prison, would be a focal point of his discussions.
The Reform party has been criticized for promoting free speech while limiting engagement with the media. Labour party sources condemned Farage for lecturing on free speech abroad while avoiding accountability to local journalists at home. They underscored the importance of transparency and accountability for public officials.
Labour’s Michael Payne, representing Gedling in Nottinghamshire, urged Farage to reverse the journalist ban and emphasize accountability to the public. The Reform party did not provide a response to requests for comment on the matter.
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