Dudley Council has disabled comments on almost all its Facebook posts, including those unrelated to council services, citing an overwhelming number of questions that staff cannot keep up with. The restriction applies to the authority's main page, 'Dudley borough,' and even appeared on a post from the council leader expressing support for the England football team ahead of their World Cup semi-final match against Argentina.
Reason for the Ban
Councillor Ed Lawrence, Dudley's cabinet member for transformation, explained the decision: 'We welcome feedback from residents, and we are always keen to hear people's views and opinions. Due to the number of questions coming into the council through our social media feed we have temporarily deactivated comments to ensure queries are not missed.' He directed residents with service requests to the MyDudley portal or Dudley Council Plus.
Political Backlash
The move by the Conservative-run council has drawn sharp criticism from opposition figures. Councillor Shaukat Ali, leader of the Labour group, said: 'Social media has become an important way for residents to engage with the council, ask questions, raise concerns, and provide feedback. If the council is using these platforms to communicate with residents, then there should also be an opportunity for residents to respond and have their voices heard. The council of course has a responsibility to moderate abusive, offensive, or inappropriate comments, but limiting or closing comments altogether risks preventing genuine public feedback and reducing transparency.'
Reform UK's deputy leader on the council, Councillor Shaun Keasey, echoed those concerns: 'No doubt there would be plenty of criticism given the record of this Conservative administration. However, I don't think that justifies blocking comments altogether. Residents should be able to question decisions and hold the council to account. Any abusive or personal comments could simply be removed and the individuals responsible blocked, without silencing everyone else.'
Councillor Steve Edwards of The Black Country Party took a more measured stance. He said: 'I am a proud advocate for free speech and believe residents have the right to comment and pass judgement on the actions of the council. Although limiting comments on social media might annoy people, I don't think it infringes on people's free speech. People can still share posts on social media and add their own comments or write to the council to voice their opinions.'
Impact on Resident Engagement
The ban has effectively cut off a direct channel for residents to raise issues or provide feedback on council services. While the council points to alternative contact methods, opponents argue that social media's accessibility is key for many residents, particularly those who may find official channels cumbersome. The council has not indicated when the temporary measure will be lifted.
