When “Free Speech” Means Hate: Ofcom Investigates GB News’ LGBTQ+ Slur

Media. Myth. Malice.

In Britain’s endless parade of “free speech” debates, there’s always someone eager to see just how far they can go before finally tripping the wire. This week, GB News finally caught the attention of Ofcom after a presenter’s throwaway slur linked LGBTQ+ people with paedophilia—a tired, hateful trope that should’ve been left in the dustbin of history.

But this wasn’t just another offensive quip lost to the ether. Over 70,000 people complained. The Good Law Project mobilised thousands more to flood Ofcom’s inbox, setting a record for public backlash to a single broadcast. If the culture war is a game, then GB News just found itself in the penalty box.

THE TRIAL OF TRUTH

### The Broadcast

It was a late-night “comedy” segment on GB News’ Headliners. The punchline? “Full inclusion of LGBTQ+ persons… that includes paedos!” delivered with a wink and a nudge, as if bigotry disguised as banter is somehow less poisonous.

Let’s be clear: linking LGBTQ+ people to abuse is one of the oldest slurs in the book. But GB News framed it as “just a joke.” The network’s defence? Free speech. Irony, apparently, knows no bounds.

### What Happened Next

The Good Law Project sprang into action, giving the public an easy way to lodge formal complaints. By the time the dust settled, Ofcom had received more complaints than for any other show in its history.

Ofcom announced an investigation—its 13th into GB News. Meanwhile, the network doubled down, insisting that calls for accountability are an assault on freedom. Major advertisers like Sky were called out by name, with thousands urging them to stop funding this toxicity. No answer from Sky, of course. Silence speaks volumes.

### What We Should Learn

The backlash is encouraging, but the bigger lesson is chilling. Here’s what this moment reveals:

• “Free speech” is a shield for hate.

  When speech only ever seems to “push boundaries” in the direction of the most vulnerable, what’s really being defended?

• Hate needs an audience.

  If you give a platform to bigotry, it will use that platform to recruit, incite, and embolden.

• Silence is complicity.

  Advertisers and corporate partners know what they’re funding. The lack of response from companies like Sky is a choice.

• Public outrage matters.

  Seventy thousand voices made Ofcom listen. That’s how we shift the boundaries back.

We are not just “offended.” We’re exhausted. We’re angry. We’re determined. GB News wants to play with fire? Don’t be surprised when everyone finally sees the smoke.

For further reading and ways to take action, see the Good Law Project’s full article here.

With solidarity and resolve,

Aeris Houlihan

Witch of the East

Trans artist. Advocate. Refusing to be silenced.