In a growing trend, 61 councils in the UK have banned swearing, offensive language, and shouting in public spaces, representing 20.6% of nearly 300 councils surveyed. This marks a fourfold increase since 2022, when only 16 councils had similar restrictions. The bans are enforced through public spaces protection orders (PSPOs), aimed at addressing antisocial behavior, but they carry fines of up to £1,000 for violations. Critics, including the Campaign for Freedom in Everyday Life, argue that these measures infringe on free speech and criminalize ordinary behaviors such as standing in groups or picking up stones. Josie Appleton, the campaign’s director, emphasized the need for stricter controls on these powers, warning that they allow officials to punish individuals for causing perceived offense. The campaign highlights concerns that such regulations are not about tackling genuine antisocial behavior but rather about controlling everyday human expression.