Labour commit to tougher online safety laws

Labour ministers have committed to implement stricter online safety laws to protect children.

This comes amid criticism of Ofcom’s current approach to regulating technology companies.

Peter Kyle, UK technology secretary, has pledged to build on the Online Safety Act, which mandates social media platforms to implement stricter controls on harmful content.

Despite Ofcom’s draft code of practice outlining over 40 measures to protect children, charities and campaigners argue it falls short.

More than 20 groups, including Barnardo’s and the Molly Rose Foundation, have criticised Ofcom, saying, “The draft rules would not bring about the changes children need and deserve.”

Charities have shared their concerns around features that keep children on apps longer, like auto-play, as well as inadequate age verification measures.

Children’s Commissioner Dame Rachel de Souza echoed these sentiments, warning that tech giants prioritise profits over child safety.

She insists companies should consult children before introducing new features like AI chatbots to gauge potential harms, and to ensure they are safe by design.

“Children are best placed to advise on the likely harms of new technology,” she stated, emphasising the need for their voices in safety discussions.

“We can’t allow platforms to adopt a ‘wait and see’ approach,” she continues.

De Souza criticised the current Children’s Code, saying it protects corporations more than children.

Kyle affirmed Labour’s commitment to enhancing online safety, acknowledging the importance of campaigners’ input.

He stated, “We must see a shift in the regulator’s approach to ensure it is implementing a regime that prioritises children’s safety.”

The push for tougher online safety laws coincides with the King’s Speech, which is expected to announce an AI bill focused on improving legal safeguards for emerging technologies.

Both Labour and the Children’s Commissioner stress the urgency of stronger regulations to protect children in the digital age.