Misinformation: Social Market Foundation Report
Debate between Lord Scriven and Lord Leong
Lord Leong (Lab)
Those who knowingly peddle misinformation and disinformation erode trust, poison public debate and undermine the very fabric of a decent democratic society. They are no friends of free speech or accountability. Deliberately spreading falsehood for political, financial or malicious gain weakens confidence in our institutions and fuels division and hostility. That is why this Government are determined to strengthen democratic resilience, uphold truth and transparency, and take robust action against unlawful online harm.
Lord Scriven (LD)
My Lords, once people get into the rabbit hole of disinformation or misinformation, the algorithms keep contributing to and multiplying the problem. Is it an option to look at the Government legislating that, every so often, the large tech companies have to press an “algorithm set to zero” button, which would mean that people are exposed to other information?
Lord Leong (Lab)
My Lords, algorithms can amplify sensational or misleading content at speed and scale, often without any transparency or accountability, as the noble Lord said. That is why the Government, through the Protecting What Matters strategy, are exploring measures to give users greater control over algorithmic recommendations and online content feeds. The Online Safety Act imposes duties on platforms to assess and mitigate risks arising from systems and processes. Technology must serve the public interest, not undermine democratic and social norms.
Public Services: Online Communications
Debate between Lord Scriven and Lord Leong
Lord Leong (Lab)
My Lords, absolutely: digital progress must never mean less choice. The NHS continues to provide face-to-face routes, telephone access and supported appointments for those who need them. We are investing in accessible contact centres, clearer phone menus and trained staff who can guide patients through the next steps. At the same time, we are improving simpler digital options for those who want them. In line with the action plan, we are keeping non-digital routes open and strengthening assisted support.
Lord Scriven (LD)
My Lords, the Minister needs a reality check. For many people, moving to digital is not acceptable. The NHS 10-year plan moves from analogue to digital, with more services moving to the NHS app. For people with a learning disability, issues regarding poor communication come to light at present only at inquests, not through central government monitoring. What new central monitoring will the Government introduce to make sure that existing communication meets vulnerable people’s needs, rather than moving to digital, which will cause further problems?
Lord Leong (Lab)
The noble Lord makes an interesting point. That is why I mentioned earlier that my noble friend Lady Armstrong is working right across government departments to bring everybody together, look at what is available and ensure that nobody is excluded from digital services. As I said, the current situation where someone can speak to a human being is still there, and it will be there. Voice-activated menus will also still exist.