Concerns Grow Over Potential Relaxation of UK Online Safety Laws Amid US Trade Negotiations
Experts warn that modifications to the Online Safety Act could endanger children's safety as part of a trade deal with the US.
Experts in online safety have expressed alarm over reports indicating that the UK government may consider weakening the Online Safety Act as part of negotiations for a trade deal with the United States.
The Act, which imposes legal responsibilities on social media companies to safeguard users from harmful content, has been seen as a crucial step in protecting children online.
Concerns have arisen following claims that the UK has drafters working on an agreement with the US which could result in a review of these online safety laws to secure exemptions for UK businesses from tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump.
The proposed changes reportedly include a reassessment of the digital services tax levied on large technology firms, currently set at 2% and generating approximately £800 million annually for the UK Treasury.
This move is perceived as a potential concession to make the UK market more attractive to US tech giants.
Andy Burrows, the chief executive of the Molly Rose Foundation, has contacted Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds, warning of 'dire consequences' if the government pursues alterations to the Online Safety Act.
Founded in memory of Molly Russell, who took her life at age 14 after exposure to harmful social media content, the foundation's leadership has been vocal in its opposition to any dilution of online safety measures.
Burrows emphasized that children’s safety should not be compromised for financial or political gain.
He highlighted the tragic reality that a young person aged 10 to 19 loses their life to suicide every week, often where technology plays a role.
In his letter, he articulated that existing regulations are inadequate and need reinforcement rather than relaxation, while highlighting the public’s likely resistance to changes that would undermine protections for young digital users.
Matthew Sowemimo, associate head of policy for child online safety at the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC), also spoke out against any rollback of the UK's commitment to online safety.
He called for strong implementation of the existing Online Safety Act, stating that the framework is essential for improving children’s experiences on the internet and that the government must ensure accountability from both Ofcom and technology companies regarding online safety standards.
In the broader context, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer stated that negotiations aimed at creating an economic prosperity deal are ongoing.
He asserted his commitment to obtaining a favorable outcome that serves the national interest and prioritizes the security of workers.
The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology has been approached for further comments on the potential implications of these negotiations on online safety legislation.
The Act, which imposes legal responsibilities on social media companies to safeguard users from harmful content, has been seen as a crucial step in protecting children online.
Concerns have arisen following claims that the UK has drafters working on an agreement with the US which could result in a review of these online safety laws to secure exemptions for UK businesses from tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump.
The proposed changes reportedly include a reassessment of the digital services tax levied on large technology firms, currently set at 2% and generating approximately £800 million annually for the UK Treasury.
This move is perceived as a potential concession to make the UK market more attractive to US tech giants.
Andy Burrows, the chief executive of the Molly Rose Foundation, has contacted Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds, warning of 'dire consequences' if the government pursues alterations to the Online Safety Act.
Founded in memory of Molly Russell, who took her life at age 14 after exposure to harmful social media content, the foundation's leadership has been vocal in its opposition to any dilution of online safety measures.
Burrows emphasized that children’s safety should not be compromised for financial or political gain.
He highlighted the tragic reality that a young person aged 10 to 19 loses their life to suicide every week, often where technology plays a role.
In his letter, he articulated that existing regulations are inadequate and need reinforcement rather than relaxation, while highlighting the public’s likely resistance to changes that would undermine protections for young digital users.
Matthew Sowemimo, associate head of policy for child online safety at the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC), also spoke out against any rollback of the UK's commitment to online safety.
He called for strong implementation of the existing Online Safety Act, stating that the framework is essential for improving children’s experiences on the internet and that the government must ensure accountability from both Ofcom and technology companies regarding online safety standards.
In the broader context, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer stated that negotiations aimed at creating an economic prosperity deal are ongoing.
He asserted his commitment to obtaining a favorable outcome that serves the national interest and prioritizes the security of workers.
The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology has been approached for further comments on the potential implications of these negotiations on online safety legislation.
