Sleepwalking towards tyranny

 


For fun and cheer as we return to the work following the Easter weekend, a brief run-down of the UK's recent descent towards techno-authoritarianism: 2016: Investigatory Powers Act- The "Snooper's Charter" authorises interception of communications (e.g., phone calls, emails, texts) by agencies like MI5, MI6, GCHQ and police. Allows "bulk interception" of communications data and legalises State hacking of individuals' data. 2018: First use of facial recognition cameras by the Metropolitan police - Digital police line-ups for the crime of walking down the high street. 2023: Online "Safety" Act - Requires social media companies to monitor and censor content, effectively makes online anonymity a criminal offence. Main provisions come into force this summer. 2024: Data Use and Access Bill- Removes the requirement for police forces to justify the seizure of personal data, allows for outsourcing of decision-making to artificial intelligence systems. 2025: Removal of Apple encryption- provides The State unfettered access to all data on Apple devices. Facial recognition cameras become a permanent fixture on the high street in Croydon. Today, the Labour government continues to research mandatory Digital IDs and replacing cash with a CBDC (Central Bank Digital Currency). Sadly, it is almost a certainty that these will be added to the list soon. A stark reminder as to why the Libertarian Party supports a written constitution enshrining the individual's right to privacy and liberty in law.

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