Internet: Safety

(asked on 27th February 2025) - View Source

Question to the Department for Science, Innovation & Technology:

To ask His Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Baroness Jones of Whitchurch on 10 February (HL4900), which references "hate, terror and offences against women and girls", whether Ofcom’s taskforce is also seeking to address small platforms that promote or glorifies suicide, self-harm and eating disorders.


Answered by
Baroness Jones of Whitchurch Portrait
Baroness Jones of Whitchurch
Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)
This question was answered on 13th March 2025

Ofcom's recent enforcement update highlights its focus on scrutinising platforms that present risks of harm from illegal content, due to their size or nature. This includes smaller sites where users might encounter priority offences such as content that encourages or assists suicide. In its January industry bulletin, Ofcom detailed its approach to driving improvements under the Online Safety Act, such as requiring specific firms - including smaller services of concern - to submit illegal content risk assessments by 31 March. Ofcom also outlined the conditions for enforcement action, including takedown orders, such as in cases of ongoing non-compliance.

Reticulating Splines