America’s ambassador to the UK, Warren Stephens, has urged for more respect in public debate in response to the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
Speaking to GB News in his first interview since taking up the role Mr Stephens said: “I think the political rhetoric ought to be dialled down everywhere.
“I knew Charlie, and if we’re not going to be allowed to debate ideas openly and freely on a college campus, then where are we going to be able to do that?
Mr Kirk was addressing a large outdoor gathering at Utah Valley University in Orem when he was struck by a bullet to the neck.
The 31-year-old was rushed to hosptial but died shortly afterwards.
America’s ambassador to the United Kingdom, Warren Stephens spoke to Christopher Hope on GB News
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GB NEWS
Mr Stephens added: “I feel deeply for his family his widow, their two children, and his whole family. It’s just a senseless killing. But it will not stifle free speech.
“Someone else will pick up that mantle, because it’s essential. It’s a fundamental right in both of our countries.”
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And he said there were important lessons the UK could learn about protecting free speech, stating: “People have been arrested here for messages left on social media, and we’re concerned about that.
“But we’ve experienced censorship in the US as well.
“And I think the Prime Minister seems to be recognising that some of these measures may be going too far.”
Mr Kirk had established himself as a prominent figure in American conservative politics, founding Turning Point USA, which became the nation’s largest conservative youth organisation.
The group played a significant part in mobilising young voter support for Trump during the November election.
Federal law enforcement agencies responded swiftly to the scene.
Attorney General Pam Bondi confirmed agents from both the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives were present at the location.
Charlie Kirk at the Utah rally hours before his death | GETTYPresident Donald Trump paid tribute to Kirk on social media, writing: “The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk, is dead.
“No one understood or had the Heart of the Youth in the United States of America better than Charlie.
“He was loved and admired by ALL, especially me, and now, he is no longer with us.”
