Activity 1: Freedom of Speech and Expression
All citizens of the United Kingdom have the right to 'freedom of expression'. This means that we are entitled to our own opinions and have the right to voice them. Article 10 of the Human Rights Act of 1998 deals with Freedom of Expression.
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Human Rights Act 1998 |
| 1. Everyone has the right to freedom of expression. The right shall include freedom to hold opinions and receive and impart information and ideas without interference by public authority...
2. The exercise of these freedoms, since it carries with it duties and responsibilities, may be subject to such formalities, conditions, restrictions or penalties as are prescribed by law and are necessary in a democratic society, in the interests of national security by territorial integrity or public safety, for the prevention of disorder or crime, for the protection of health or morals, for the protection of the reputation or rights of others, for preventing the disclosure of information received in confidence, or for maintaining the authority and impartiality of the judiciary. |
Read carefully again Article 10 of the Human Rights Act of 1998 (above). As you will see, the right to freedom of expression does not mean that citizens can always say exactly what they want.
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In your own words, explain what limits are put on the right to freedom of expression for citizens in the UK?
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What responsibilities do citizens have to uphold in order to have the right to freedom of expression?
