Trump administration concerned over Downing Street plans to give more online prominence to established media outlets
The Trump administration has warned that UK plans to give established broadcasters greater prominence online could amount to censorship and threaten independent journalism.
The Trump administration has raised "serious concerns" over Downing Street plans to give established media outlets greater prominence on digital platforms, warning the proposals could facilitate censorship.
The US government said measures encouraging platforms such as YouTube to boost traditional broadcasters in their algorithms could create a template for authoritarian governments to exert greater control over online content.
The intervention, issued through the US embassy in London, comes as the UK government considers how to make trusted media more visible as audiences increasingly turn to platforms including YouTube, TikTok and X for news.
Ministers, regulators and public service broadcasters have argued that action may be needed to combat misinformation and support established news organisations.
A government consultation said legislation could be considered if platforms failed to voluntarily prioritise trustworthy content.
Washington, however, said such measures could harm independent journalists and minority viewpoints.
It stated: "Preserving a free, open internet and protecting freedom of expression online are top priorities for the Trump administration."
It warned that if the UK forced platforms to promote government-preferred media in algorithmic feeds, the impact on disfavoured outlets could be similar to outright removal.
The statement added: "We believe strongly in free expression and fair competition, and any action we take will ensure these are protected."
Any new rules are expected to apply only in the UK, but Washington's intervention highlights its willingness to defend major US technology companies that operate the world's largest online platforms.
The proposals have also attracted criticism from online creators, who fear their work could be pushed down search rankings or recommendation feeds to make room for established broadcasters.
YouTube creator Simon Squibb said the US intervention showed that politicians should take concerns about the plans seriously.
He said: "This is a very dangerous potential direction for the UK to go in."
Supporters argue that giving greater prominence to established public service broadcasters could help counter misinformation while protecting culturally important British content.
However, critics say the approach risks creating a hierarchy of speech online and giving governments too much influence over what people see.
The dispute also comes as traditional broadcasters face mounting financial pressure from the shift towards digital platforms and changing audience habits.
