Conservative MP George Freeman has reported an AI-generated deepfake video that falsely shows him defecting to Reform UK. The Mid Norfolk MP described the clip as a 'dangerous development' and urged the public not to share it.
The video, circulated online, depicts an AI version of Freeman announcing his switch to Nigel Farage's party, saying 'the time for half measures is over' and that the 'Conservative party had lost its way'. Freeman confirmed he has no intention of leaving the Tories and reported the matter to police.
In a Facebook post, Freeman called the spread of AI-generated misinformation a 'concerning and dangerous development' that could 'seriously distort, disrupt and corrupt our democracy'. He said the video was created without his knowledge or consent, using his image and voice without permission.
Freeman, who has served as MP since 2010 and held ministerial roles including science, innovation and technology, said he did not know if the incident was a 'politically motivated attack' or a 'dangerous prank'. He noted a 'huge increase in political disinformation, disruption and extremism' on both left and right in recent months.
