Social media giants who don’t block extremism to face ‘tough sentences’
THE Prime Minister yesterday vowed to crack down on online companies who allow “foul content” on their platforms.
Boris Johnson warned social media giants who don’t block extremist views could face “criminal sanctions and tough sentences”.
He insisted the Government’s new internet safety laws will tackle online hatred.
Progress
His promise comes in the wake of the murder of Sir David Amess in a terrorist-related attack. Since the killing, MPs have spoken of the sickening online abuse they suffer daily – including death threats.
The Online Harms Bill is expected to force the biggest tech firms, such as Facebook and Google, to abide by a duty of care to users, overseen by regulator Ofcom. Mr Johnson said it will make progress in the Commons before Christmas.
But some campaigners fear the Bill could stifle the free press, silence marginalised voices and introduce state-backed censorship.
Speaking during Prime Minister’s Questions, Mr Johnson said: “The Online Safety Bill is... one of the most important tools in our armoury.”
He added: “What we’re doing is ensuring that we crack down on companies that promote illegal and dangerous content and we’ll be toughing up those provisions.” He agreed to work with Sir Keir Starmer on the issue. The Labour leader questioned why directors of platforms that fail to crack down on extremism would not face criminal sanctions under the plans. Mr Johnson later said: “We are willing to look at anything to strengthen the legislation. And yes, we will have criminal sanctions with tough sentences for those who are responsible for allowing this foul content to permeate the internet.” And the debate on MP security intensified on Tuesday when Communities Secretary Michael Gove was ambushed by protesters.
Yesterday Sarah Vine, columnist and mother of Mr Gove’s children, wrote about the harassment the family have faced and revealed how their son and daughter had been affected by the abuse. Footage of Mr Gove being mobbed in Westminster is being examined by the Metropolitan Police.
Meanwhile, Culture Secretary Nadine Dorries has revealed the poignant final letter she received from Sir David Amess.
He wrote to congratulate her on being promoted. The Tory MP said: “What a fabulous promotion – delighted for you. Let’s now make Southend a city!”
The Essex resort has been granted city status in tribute to Sir David.