Musk clashes with UK PM over ‘civil war’ claim
Downing Street rebukes Musk's civil war remark, condemns online violence incitement
Elon Musk and the UK prime minister have engaged in a heated exchange after Downing Street dismissed Musk’s claims that a “civil war is inevitable” in the UK. Musk made his remarks on the social media platform X, responding to a video showing rioters launching fireworks at police.
Civil war is inevitable
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) August 4, 2024
The prime minister’s spokesperson condemned Musk’s comments, stating: “There is no justification for such statements. Anyone inciting violence online will face the full force of the law. Online platforms have a responsibility.”
Musk also reacted to a social media post by Sir Keir, who criticised violence against Muslims. Far-right demonstrations targeting mosques and hotels housing asylum seekers have recently troubled the UK. Sir Keir remarked, “This unrest is not protest but pure violence. We will not tolerate attacks on mosques or Muslim communities.” Musk responded, “Shouldn’t you be concerned about attacks on *all* communities?”
As the government pushes social media companies to curb misinformation, Sir Keir emphasized during a COBRA meeting on Monday that “the law applies online.” He insisted that inciting violence, whether online or offline, warrants arrests and prosecution.
The prime minister’s spokesman reiterated that the government collaborates with social media platforms to eradicate disinformation, though more efforts are needed. Technology Secretary Peter Kyle stated that the responsibility for harmful content lies mainly with its creators but acknowledged that social media provides a platform for such hate. He stressed the importance of social media companies in preventing the spread of harmful content.
Since the riots began last Tuesday, over 400 arrests have been made. The unrest started in Southport following the arrest of Axel Rudakubana, charged with the murder of three young girls and multiple counts of attempted murder. Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, Alice Dasilva Aguiar, nine, and Bebe King, six, were fatally attacked in Merseyside last Monday.
Misinformation falsely claimed that Rudakubana, born in Cardiff to Rwandan parents, was a Muslim refugee. Influencer Andrew Tate amplified this narrative, incorrectly labelling the attacker as an “illegal migrant.” Reform UK leader Nigel Farage cast doubt on the police’s statement that the attack was not “terror-related.”
Sir Keir announced a “standing army” of specialist police officers ready to address further violence. The prime minister stated that the criminal justice system would intensify efforts, with courts operating longer hours, ensuring those charged are named promptly. Sir Keir reiterated, “This is not protest but pure violence. We will not tolerate attacks on mosques or Muslim communities.”
