The Attorney General, Richard Hermer, has ordered his office to stop posting on X, marking the first time a UK government department has abandoned the platform amid concerns over its role in inciting violence and spreading racist content. While Downing Street continues to defend the use of the site as a necessary tool for public communication, Hermer’s decision signals a shift in ministerial attitudes toward the platform owned by Elon Musk.
Richard Hermer’s office will only continue to use X under one specific condition: the active combatting of disinformation found on the site.
Why the Attorney General is leaving X
Hermer’s decision follows a series of violent incidents earlier this month in Southampton and Belfast. According to official accounts, the Attorney General grew increasingly concerned that X, more than any other social media platform, is being utilized by bad actors to sow division within communities.
In Southampton, widespread violence resulted in 11 injured police officers during protests surrounding the death of Henry Nowak. Six days later, far-right activists used the platform to call for demonstrations in Belfast following a stabbing attack, leading to reports of minority communities being targeted and health workers being harassed. In both instances, participants were linked to calls for action often endorsed by Musk.
The Attorney General’s move creates a visible tension within the Cabinet. While ministers like Hermer are increasingly vocal about the risks posed by social media firms, the government remains tethered to existing, slower regulatory processes. This creates a strategic gap between individual departmental policy and the broader, more cautious stance held by Downing Street.
What regulatory action is expected next
While the government has signaled a desire to tighten control over social media, immediate changes are limited by existing legislation. Currently, any official reprimand of X remains the responsibility of Ofcom, the media regulator. However, Ofcom is not expected to produce its first quarterly compliance report for at least two months, effectively stalling immediate intervention.
Ministers are planning to amend the Online Safety Act to allow for faster removal of inflammatory content during crises, but this change will not take effect until mid-July at the earliest. In the interim, the government has moved to restrict social media access for those under 16, a policy Hermer has publicly supported as part of a broader effort to mitigate the influence of what he termed “a very small group of crypto-funded millionaires.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the entire UK government leaving X?
No. Only the Attorney General’s office has been directed to stop posting. Downing Street continues to defend the use of the platform by government departments, citing the need to reach the public.
What is the status of the Online Safety Act amendments?
Ministers intend to amend the act to require quicker removal of inflammatory content during riots, but these changes are not expected to be effective until mid-July at the earliest.
What is the role of Ofcom in this situation?
The government has deferred official reprimands of X to the media regulator, Ofcom. However, the regulator is currently awaiting a compliance report that is not due for at least two months.
How should the government balance its need to communicate with the public against the risks posed by the platforms they use?
