Inquiry calls for investigation into Russia’s influence on Brexit

A parliamentary inquiry into disinformation has called on the government to investigate the Russian state’s attempts to influence the EU referendum.

The digital, culture, media and sport committee of MPs published its report on disinformation and fake news, examining the broad range of harms, including voter manipulation which can be conducted online.

Among the most contentious topics the committee has investigated has been the work of Leave-supporting campaigns ahead of the Brexit vote.

It warned that while the government “has been very ready to accept the evidence of Russian activity in the Skripal case” it has been “reluctant to accept evidence” of the same activity influencing the Brexit vote, due to the political implications of the referendum being influenced by foreign interference.

The government previously said it “has not seen evidence of successful use of disinformation by foreign actors, including Russia, to influence UK democratic processes” although it acknowledged that disinformation campaigns took place.

via Sky