Question to the Department for Science, Innovation & Technology:

To ask His Majesty's Government what their understanding is of the timescales of the work of Ofcom’s new ‘small but risky’ taskforce; and specifically when they expect any platforms that are prioritised as being particularly dangerous and which do not comply with requirements under the Online Safety Act 2023 to be subject to takedown orders.

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.