Head of the National Police Chiefs’ Council Gavin Stephens said officers are expected to referee social debate using laws that pre-date social media

The 57-year-old posed with a sign which said on one side: ‘There’s no such thing as a transgender child.’

He is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Thursday.

UK Conservative MPs described it as ‘ridiculous’ and accused the police of ‘arresting people for making jokes’.

Linehan, 57, said he was stopped by police at Heathrow Airport over entries posted on X in April.

The Irish comedy writer appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Monday charged with harassing Sophia Brooks and damaging her phone.

The writer is due to face the charges on May 12th at Westminster Magistrates’ Court