Dudley Council says it is preventing people from commenting on its social media posts because it is swamped by questions.
Recently, the authority’s posts on Facebook have carried the message ‘Dudley borough limited who can comment on this post’ where people would normally click to have their say.
The message appears on almost all messages on the ‘Dudley borough’ page, even on the council leaders’ post offering support to the England football team ahead of the World Cup semi-final clash with Argentina.
Councillor Ed Lawrence, Dudley cabinet member for transformation, said: “We welcome feedback from residents, and we are always keen to hear people’s views and opinions.
“Due to the number of questions coming into the council through our social media feed we have temporarily deactivated comments to ensure queries are not missed.
“We ask residents with any service requests or queries to visit MyDudley on the Dudley Council website or to contact Dudley Council Plus.”
The comments ban by the Conservative-run administration has been criticised by some of its political opponents for restricting a popular method of communication.
Cllr Shaukat Ali, Dudley’s Labour group leader, said: “Social media has become an important way for residents to engage with the council, ask questions, raise concerns, and provide feedback.
“If the council is using these platforms to communicate with residents, then there should also be an opportunity for residents to respond and have their voices heard.
“The council, of course, has a responsibility to moderate abusive, offensive, or inappropriate comments, but limiting or closing comments altogether risks preventing genuine public feedback and reducing transparency.”
Cllr Shaun Keasey, Reform UK’s Dudley deputy leader, said: “No doubt there would be plenty of criticism given the record of this Conservative administration.
“However, I don’t think that justifies blocking comments altogether. Residents should be able to question decisions and hold the council to account.
“Any abusive or personal comments could simply be removed and the individuals responsible blocked, without silencing everyone else.”
Cllr Steve Edwards from The Black Country Party was more relaxed than his fellow councillors.
He said: “I am a proud advocate for free speech and believe residents have the right to comment and pass judgment on the actions of the council.
“Although limiting comments on social media might annoy people, I don’t think it infringes on people’s free speech.
“People can still share posts on social media and add their own comments or write to the council to voice their opinions.”
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