UK (Parliament Politics Magazine) – UK Tech Secretary Peter Kyle called TikTok a “desirable product” but raised concerns over data security and its possible role in Chinese propaganda.
British Technology Minister Peter Kyle said TikTok’s popularity and the UK’s diplomatic relations with China influence the government’s cautious stance on the app. While acknowledging its widespread appeal, he voiced concerns over data security for millions of Britons.
What did Peter Kyle say about TikTok’s risks and appeal?
Peter Kyle expressed genuine concern about TikTok’s ownership model and data usage after US courts upheld a law that could lead to the platform’s ban or sale.
As reported by the Guardian, Mr Kyle stated,
“I am genuinely concerned about the ownership model of TikTok. I’m genuinely concerned about their use of data, linked to the ownership model.”
Amid fears of TikTok being used for Chinese propaganda, Peter Kyle described the app as a “desirable product,” urging Britain to adopt a balanced approach. He also highlighted the need for young people to have the freedom to engage with diverse cultures and ideologies while remaining mindful of potential threats.
What did Rutgers University suggest about TikTok and pro-China attitudes?
A new study from Rutgers University shows that TikTok users in the United States who spend a lot of time on the app have a 50% higher pro-China attitude than non-users.
The report raised worries over the Chinese government’s access to the data gathered by the app. It also highlighted the platform’s moderation system, which prioritises irrelevant or clickbait material and suppresses content about alleged Chinese Communist Party abuses and anti-China discussions.
The report concluded that
“TikTok’s content may contribute to psychological manipulation of users, aligning with the CCP’s strategic objective of shaping favourable perceptions among young audiences.”
However, TikTok responded to the findings as “a flawed experiment.”
How did Peter Kyle respond to Rutgers University’s TikTok study?
When asked about the Rutgers University report, Mr Kyle emphasised the need for caution regarding TikTok, drawing attention to the fact that many other platforms and traditional media also have editorial policies, which can lead to biases. He added this is not a “new phenomenon.”
Mr Kyle stated that the government actively observes social media trends, adding,
“where we do see trends which are harmful to our national security or harmful to our way of life, then of course we start acting.”
In response to a question about the potential use of TikTok as a propaganda tool, the Technology Secretary assured that any issues would be tackled openly, stating,
“If we had concerns, we would act publicly.”
He added,
“There are no concerns that we have related to social media activities that we are keeping from the public.”
He also pointed out the importance of the UK’s careful approach to its ties with China, as well as other nations that may pose a risk to its values, later clarifying that this included countries other than China.
Mr Kyle said that the US banning TikTok pushed people to the Chinese version, which he believed was collecting data and spreading propaganda more than the US version of the app.
What does TikTok say about its UK operations and data security?
According to a representative from TikTok, the app in Britain operates under a UK-registered and regulated company. It further added that £10bn has been allocated for the protection of users in the UK and Europe, with security measures being “independently reviewed and assessed.”
TikTok confirmed that the company, Bytedance, is majorly controlled by international investors, with the founder, Zhang Yiming, owning 20%.
Why was TikTok banned in the United States before President-elect Trump’s inauguration?
TikTok was banned in the United States on January 18, 2025, amid fears over its ties with the Chinese government. The app users reported the platform was removed from app stores, and its website stopped displaying videos in compliance with the new legislation.
The legislation required TikTok’s ownership to shift to a US-approved buyer by January 19. While Biden deferred the issue to Trump, the app resumed operations after newly elected President Donald Trump pledged to restore it.