Emphasizing the importance of online safety protections for children, a minister affirmed that they are non-negotiable in US trade talks to avoid potential tariffs imposed by Donald Trump.
Treasury minister James Murray assured on Sky News Breakfast with Anna Jones that the fundamental safeguards outlined in the Online Safety Act for individuals under 18 are a priority.
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While reaffirming the necessity of protecting children and vulnerable individuals online, Mr. Murray hinted at potential adjustments to the bill, which also addresses adult user protection measures.
In response to questions about possible alterations to the legislation, Mr. Murray stated: “Let me stress the significance of the Online Safety Act in ensuring adequate protections for children and vulnerable individuals, which are non-negotiable.”
“However, broader negotiations may require some flexibility to finalize a deal,” he added.
The most stringent protections in the Online Safety Act are directed towards children.
The bill, passed by the Tories and set for implementation this year, mandates platforms to restrict children’s access to harmful and age-inappropriate content, such as material promoting eating disorders and pornography.
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Tariffs: UK ‘negotiating’ with US
The act also mandates tech companies to block illegal content for all users and empower adult users with tools for content control.
This regulation falls under Ofcom, with penalties of up to £18m or 10% of global revenue for companies, and potential legal action against senior management if they are found responsible.
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Any dilution of these measures could face opposition from Labour MPs advocating for stronger online safety measures, including a ban on social media for under-16s.
A source close to a group of MPs lobbying for stricter regulations suggested that US trade negotiations were influencing the government’s stance, particularly in resisting new actions despite public and political pressure.
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Elevated concerns about inappropriate social media content being accessible to children have come to light, notably due to the release of the Netflix drama Adolescence
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Simultaneously, Downing Street seeks a trade agreement with the US in hopes of persuading Mr. Trump to lift the 10% tariff on UK imports imposed recently as part of global tariff measures.
While the UK faces relatively lower tariffs compared to the EU and China, additional levies on British car imports are expected to impact local businesses.
Previous reports indicate that any trade deal is likely to prioritize the tech sector, as challenges in sectors like food standards and healthcare have hindered progress in a Full Trade Agreement under the Tories.
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Tech companies have expressed reservations about the Online Safety Act, while US state officials have reportedly voiced concerns to Ofcom regarding its impact on free speech, as reported by The Guardian.
In the Sky News’ Electoral Dysfunction Podcast with Beth Rigby, veteran Labour Peer Harriet Harmer urged Sir Keir to prioritize parents’ interests over “tech bros”.
Additionally, Rachel de Souza, the children’s commissioner for England, warned that if safeguards for online safety of children are weakened, they may have to be completely barred from accessing social media to ensure their well-being.