Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey has intensified his criticism of Elon Musk, calling him a “criminal” and demanding that UK authorities prosecute him under the Online Safety Act. Davey argues that Musk’s management of X, formerly known as Twitter, has allowed harmful material—including grooming content, self-harm promotion, and child sexual abuse material—to remain on the platform. He stressed that the UK law holds company directors accountable if their platforms fail to protect children from harmful or illegal content.
The row escalated after Musk appeared at a far-right rally in London, where he delivered inflammatory remarks interpreted by critics as inciting violence. Davey said Musk’s words and failure to moderate dangerous content show a pattern of disregard for public safety and children’s wellbeing. He urged Ofcom, the UK communications regulator, to use its powers to investigate and hold Musk accountable.
While some legal experts say Musk’s speech may not meet the legal threshold for prosecution under existing statutes like the Public Order Act, Davey insists the Online Safety Act provides grounds for criminal liability. “If Musk sets foot in the UK, he should be arrested,” Davey told reporters, arguing that no individual is above the law when children’s safety is at stake.
The debate reflects growing political and legal scrutiny of global tech leaders, especially as governments move to tighten digital regulations. Whether Musk will face prosecution remains uncertain, but Davey’s demand has pushed the conversation about accountability in social media governance to the forefront of UK politics
Ed Davey Calls Elon Musk a ‘Criminal’ Over Online Safety and UK Law
