Repeal Section 127 of the Communications Act 2003

Closed 58 signatures

What the petition asks

Repeal Section 127(1)(a) of the Communications Act 2003, which criminalises “grossly offensive” online communications. Replace it with clearer, narrowly defined legislation that seeks to protect the public from genuine harm while safeguarding freedom of expression.

We believe the term “grossly offensive” is vague and subjective, giving the state excessive power to criminalise speech that is merely unpopular or provocative. This can undermine free expression, chill public debate, and can lead to inconsistent prosecutions. Harmful threats and harassment are already covered by more precise laws. Repealing and replacing this wording would, we believe, restore proper limits on state power while maintaining protections against genuine abuse.

Timeline

20 Jan 2026	Petition opened for signatures
20 Jul 2026	Closed to new signatures

Key facts

Signatures 58

Status Closed

Department Department for Science, Innovation and Technology

Opened 20 Jan 2026

Closed 20 Jul 2026

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