The United Kingdom has voiced its apprehensions regarding the Online Safety Act passed by the Sri Lankan Parliament on January 24th, signaling its intent to closely monitor the implementation of the legislation.
Anne-Marie Trevelyan, Minister of State for the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, revealed this stance in a statement to the UK Parliament.
Despite widespread concerns raised by civil society, opposition parties, and international internet providers regarding the potential adverse effects of the Online Safety Act, it was ratified into law by the Sri Lankan Parliament. Minister Trevelyan emphasized that the UK had consistently expressed apprehensions about the Act's implications for freedom of expression and economic growth.
In her written statement to the UK Parliament, Minister Trevelyan highlighted the UK's efforts to engage with Sri Lankan authorities on this matter. These efforts included discussions during her meeting with Sri Lankan President Wickremesinghe in October and when Lord Tariq Ahmad, Minister of State for South Asia, held talks with Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Ali Sabry on January 25th.
