Freedom of speech is an issue that means different things to different people. However, the debate constantly rages as to whether everyone should be given the freedom to say what they want to say. Extreme protest groups like the EDL and BNP are stifled by many who believe that they express racist views. There is also criticism of the decision by media organisations to air the views of radical cleric Anjem Choudary, who was one of the main figures behind banned, poppy-burning group Muslims Against Crusades. This country, like America, retains a strong belief in the notion of free speech, but this often causes conflict with the desire of many to keep extreme views from receiving exposure. For every person who thinks that all views should be given appropriate platform, whether they are agreeable or not, there's another who thinks that there should be a degree of censorship around whose voices are heard. Freedom of speech is the cornerstone of democratic societies, but the case of how far it should extend is always going to be a point of contention.
Freelance film journalist and fan of professional wrestling. Usually found in a darkened screening room looking for an aisle seat and telling people to put away their mobile phones. Also known to do a bit of stand-up comedy, so I'm used to the occasional heckle.
