Oh, Sh*t! British City Bans “Foul and Abusive” Language

Well, meet the Anti-Social Behaviour Crime and Policing Act of 2014.
by Abu Poblete | March 07, 2016

“Well, shit.”

Use “foul and abusive” language like this in Salford in Greater Manchester and you can get fined for up to GBP90 (PHP5,967.52) or a summons in court where you might end up paying GBP1,000 (PHP66,305.79) if convicted.

The order from the Salford City Council legislated the Anti-Social Behaviour Crime and Policing Act of 2014 that prohibits the following:

1. Jumping from, climbing upon or hanging from any bridge to which this order applies or aiding, abetting, counselling or procuring such an act by another
2. Throwing of any object at anyone without their consent
3. Except in case of emergency, removing, displacing or otherwise interfering with any life saving equipment
4. Depositing or throwing into or onto the water any animal or any large object unrelated to water activities including wheelie bins
5. Using foul and abusive language
6. Urinating or defecating in any street or public space

The act was legalized in August last year because of reported cases of anti-social behavior (ASB) in the Salford Quays and the surrounding basins and canals. The order is to restrict people, whether participating in water activities or not, within the restricted area from doing prohibited activities. The act is effective until August 2018 unless extended by the Council.

Campaign Group Liberty said “the order could have a chilling effect on freedom of expression,” especially on football fans who travel to the area for match days.

But the council also says that the ban will help authorities in combating ASB by enabling them “another tool to use against anyone causing a nuisance.”

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