UK Culture Secretary Nandy quits X over abuse

UK Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy has announced she is leaving the social media platform X, stating her department will also cease using the service over concerns it fosters abuse and misinformation. Her decision makes the Department for Culture, Media and Sport the second UK government department to withdraw from the platform in recent weeks.

Nandy announced her departure in a post on X on July 2. She wrote that a platform originally designed for free speech and expression now favours abuse and misinformation over meaningful debate, adding that it is not healthy for democracy or communities. She confirmed she would continue to post on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

The Attorney General's Office previously stopped using X last month. Attorney General Lord Hermer defended his decision to ban his staff from the platform, telling a parliamentary committee it constantly descends to racism and misogyny. He stated his department could engage in serious and respectful debate elsewhere. The prime minister, Sir Keir Starmer, has previously criticized X owner Elon Musk, accusing him of trying to whip up division in Britain following a high-profile murder case last month.