Trump administration opposes British plan to give traditional media priority on online platforms

The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed “serious concerns” about the UK government’s initiative to require online platforms, including YouTube and other social networks, to increase the exposure of traditional media outlets such as the BBC and ITV.

A warning issued by the U.S. Embassy in London says the policy could pave the way for “censorship” by giving governments the ability to influence which media sources platform algorithms display more frequently.

Washington believes the British proposals could create a precedent that authoritarian regimes could exploit to justify greater control over online content.

The U.S. administration has also raised concerns about the impact such a system could have on independent journalists and creators, especially those not affiliated with traditional media outlets.

“Preserving a free and open internet and protecting freedom of expression online are top priorities for the Trump administration,” the U.S. Embassy said in its statement.

According to the diplomatic mission, any framework that enables authorities to determine which sources receive greater visibility could become a form of viewpoint-based censorship.

The U.S. government has called for assurances that implementation of the policy will not be influenced by the biases or preferences of British officials and other organizations, so as not to harm independent journalism and minority voices.

Meanwhile, the British government has defended the consultation held on the future of the media. A spokesperson for the Department for Culture, Media and Sport said London strongly believed in freedom of expression and fair competition.

The plan proposed in Britain envisages that online platforms could be required to take steps to give priority to content deemed trustworthy, at a time when users are increasingly turning to YouTube, TikTok and X for information.

Supporters of the approach say it would help counter disinformation and protect British cultural content.

Another government objective is to strengthen public service broadcasters, which are facing financial difficulties as a result of the expansion of digital platforms.