Tory Councillors Reported for Sharing Sexist Deepfake Video
Two Conservative councillors from Wealden District Council in East Sussex have been reported to police after sharing a graphic AI-generated deepfake video of Rachel Millward, the Green Party Deputy Leader.
Details of the Incident
Neil Cleaver and Michael Lunn, members of the Wealden District Council, shared a manipulated video depicting Millward with exaggerated physical features, alongside her Green Party colleagues Zack Polanski and Mothin Ali.
Councillor Michael Lunn posted the video on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) with the caption:
“Amazing skills from the Green Party 🥳. 👍”
The post was subsequently retweeted by Councillor Neil Cleaver.
Reactions and Legal Context
A spokesperson for the Green Party condemned the video as “highly offensive and misogynistic.”
Neil Cleaver declined to comment further, stating, “it’s just politics, isn’t it.”
Since last year, sharing AI-generated intimate images such as deepfakes without consent has become a criminal offense under the Online Safety Act.
Calls for Action
The Conservative leader of Wealden District is facing demands to suspend the councillors involved while an investigation takes place.
Summary
This case highlights serious concerns about the misuse of AI technology for creating offensive content targeting public figures, emphasizing the need for accountability in political conduct.