World Council for Health is deeply concerned following a decision made by Lansdown Hall, Stroud to pull the screening of Protocol 7, a film produced and directed by Andy Wakefield that explores the topic of autism and its potential links to vaccines. This act of censorship is yet another troubling development in a society that should value free speech and open dialogue.
On 2 December 2024 an email was received from Penny de Lotz, Venue Manager of Lansdown Hall which read:
‘At the last board meeting the Trustees discussed the film screening and took the decision not to allow it to be shown here at the hall.’
No reason was given.
This is not the first time World Council for Health has been deplatformed. In May 2022, Bath and Northeast Somerset Council, failed to honour its contract with the World Council for Health to host a 1000 attendee conference in the heart of Bath, stating that the conference would bring their ‘name and reputation’ into ‘disrepute’. However, the Better Way Conference took place as planned at an alternative venue.
https://www.worldcouncilforhealth.org/bath_conference_venue_change/
In July of the same year, X (then Twitter) permanently banned WCH two days before World Ivermectin Day.
https://www.worldcouncilforhealth.org/twitter-bans-world-council-for-health/
By cancelling this event, Lansdown Hall has silenced an important conversation about the ongoing debates surrounding vaccines, autism, and public health. While we acknowledge that the film may challenge long-held views, it is essential that society upholds the principles of freedom of expression, and freedom of information especially when it involves discussions that may be uncomfortable. The ability to engage with diverse perspectives is critical for fostering a society that values transparency, critical thinking, and informed consent.
Censorship, whether it occurs through the suppression of films, books, or public forums, undermines the fundamental right to seek and share information. This is especially concerning at a time when it is more important than ever to ensure that all voices can be heard, regardless of whether they align with the mainstream narrative or not.
In order to preserve a democratic and open society, we must resist censorship and support the free flow of ideas. The decision to pull Protocol 7 is a step backward, and it is our collective responsibility to stand up for the right to express differing opinions without fear of silencing or reprisals.
In the end, open dialogue, no matter how difficult, is the foundation upon which a just and informed society is built.
Take Action:
• Lansdown Hall is a registered charity (number 1056355). Show your support by writing a letter of complaint to the Charity Commission referencing Lansdown Hall and its actions
• Show up in support of the events or screenings that are still allowed to take place. This acts as a visible reminder that people value their right to access and share diverse ideas
• Continue to share censored material – if a film, article, or piece of content is being silenced, share it online. Sharing can amplify censored content, bypassing traditional gatekeepers
• Highlight the venue responsible for the censorship, exposing it to public scrutiny and share this content with others.
