US officials have called to question Australia’s communications minister’s plan to filter the internet.

The move comes as the US prepares a diplomatic blitz on internet censorship globally and follows Google weighing in.

The Punch reported US State Department spokesman Noel Clay saying:

“The US and Australia are close partners on issues related to cyber matters generally, including national security and economic issues… We do not discuss the details of specific diplomatic exchanges, but can say that in the context of that ongoing relationship, we have raised our concerns on this matter with Australian officials.”

“The US Government’s position on internet freedom issues is well known, expressed most recently in Secretary Clinton’s January 21st address. We are committed to advancing the free flow of information, which we view as vital to economic prosperity and preserving open societies globally.”