The latest local news, weather and high school sports from the Heartland

The British Government stirred controversy after meeting with representatives of Twitter, Facebook and BlackBerry on Thursday.

The New York Times reports that Prime Minister David Cameron has called to restrict the use of the social media sites after the riots earlier this month.

The aim is to “crack down on the networks being used for criminal behavior,” according to Theresa May, the British government’s Home Minister.

This is not the first time a country has tried to limit internet access during times of civil unrest. The Iranian government slowed Internet connections and shut down cell phone services to curb dissent during their presidential elections in June 2009.

Chinese authorities not only block website content but also monitor internet access of individuals, jailing journalists and dissident bloggers.

Leaders who support the idea of keeping the internet community quiet say it is for the protection of the people. The more that zealous bloggers spread their ideas, the more violent the riots become.

Those that oppose say it is restricting free speech and taking away people’s rights.

Should governments be allowed to restrict social media chatter in times of civil unrest, or should people be allowed to speak freely? Let us know what you think.