A controversy has emerged after revelations that employment contracts for some UK-based Google DeepMind employees include non-disparagement clauses that can restrict criticism of the company even after they leave, with employees demanding the clause be eliminated from existing agreements as well. Google said it has recently removed the provision from new contracts. The contracts of some UK-based employees at Google DeepMind, the AI division under Alphabet, include non-disparagement agreements restricting criticism of the company even after resignation, a provision that could be interpreted as prohibiting remarks damaging the reputation of the company or its executives not only during employment but also after the employment relationship has ended. Employees argue they should be able to publicly inform the public about the impact and potential risks of AI technology on society, and claim language stating contractual restrictions remain in effect after leaving could discourage researchers from raising issues of public interest or whistleblowing. Dozens of DeepMind employees recently participated in discussions surrounding the clauses; some directly criticized the agreements, while others posted emojis reminiscent of George Orwell’s novel "1984." One current employee said that given AI technology’s significant influence and rapid pace of change, the public has a right to know about actual harm and potential risks, while another expressed concern that regardless of legal enforceability, the clause’s mere inclusion could pressure members to refrain from speaking out.