WhatsApp's future in the UK has fallen under question

The country's proposed online safety law could force the messaging service to shut down its operations in the country.

The Online Safety Bill, introduced by former Prime Minister Boris Johnson, is aimed at compelling internet companies to remove illegal content like child sexual abuse and terrorism.

WhatsApp chief Will Cathcart has stated that the company would prefer to be blocked in the UK than undermine its privacy features, which are vital to the app's functioning.

The bill, which doesn't explicitly describe a blocking mechanism, could lead to charges against executives and fines up to 10% of annual global revenue if the companies don't comply. Signal Foundation's President, Meredith Whittaker, has already said that her messaging service would leave the UK if the law forced them to weaken privacy protections.

The department responsible for the bill announced it plans to pass it this parliamentary session, which runs until the second half of this year. Will Cathcart is currently in London to lobby against the bill, which comes amid a scandal involving leaked WhatsApp messages between former health secretary and ministers, including Boris Johnson.