A councillor has spoken with frustration over a debate about free speech in Bracknell that occurred on the day that American activist Charlie Kirk was killed.
A councillor has expressed frustration over a free speech debate in Bracknell that coincided with the tragic death of American activist Charlie Kirk.
Councillor John Harrison (Conservative, Binfield North & Warfield West) introduced a motion at Bracknell Forest Council aimed at safeguarding free speech last week. Meanwhile, over 4,900 miles away, Kirk was shot in the neck.
Following the debate, Cllr Harrison shared his disappointment about the motion's failure, stating, "The proposal was straightforward and rooted in our shared democratic values: to explicitly recognise the importance of free speech under the law in the council's codes of conduct. This would help protect elected representatives from political opponents who might weaponise vaguely worded conduct rules for personal vendettas." He added that the motion also aimed to respect the beliefs of council employees, allowing them to opt out of politically charged training.
Cllr Harrison lamented the rejection of the motion by Labour Councillors, who pushed through an amendment that he deemed ineffective, saying, "They wanted a fight! This isn't just disappointing – it’s revealing. Their response speaks volumes about a mindset that prioritises control over conversation."
The debate on September 10 lasted over an hour, during which Mary Temperton (Labour, Great Hollands) successfully introduced an amendment affirming that freedom of speech is a cornerstone of democracy, provided it does not incite hatred. This amendment was adopted with 21 votes in favour, six against, and one abstention.
Cllr Harrison paid tribute to Charlie Kirk, calling his death "horrific" and highlighting Kirk’s commitment to free speech on college campuses. He stated, "This man embodied the very principles I was arguing for: engaging ideas with courage and civility, not coercion. Tragically, the left relentlessly demonised him for believing in border control, attempting to silence his voice at every turn."
In closing, Cllr Harrison urged people to reject the demonisation of opponents, saying, "In honouring Charlie Kirk's memory, let’s recommit to defending liberty with kindness and firmness. Free speech isn’t a partisan luxury; it’s the foundation of a just society. Whether in our local councils or on global stages, we owe it to one another to protect it."
James Aldridge, Local Democracy Reporter
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