Information security

May’s government is overhauling a 100-year-old law, and it could kill off our last sliver of democracy

Theresa May’s government is overhauling the 100-year-old Official Secrets Act. Last updated in 1989, the Official Secrets Act determines what punishment is given to people who leak sensitive government information.

In 2015, the UK government tasked the Law Commission with reviewing the act. On 2 February, the commission published its findings and its alarming ideas for reform. Whistleblowing, or leaking, is a crucial check on power. And such checks are essential for democracy to thrive.

But the UK’s democratic system is under threat. And if the government accepts these suggestions, it will destroy the last bit of democracy we have left.