Online Safety Act

I spoke with ITV News West Country on Tuesday about Online Safety. In Parliament, I’m pushing for change—meeting with those affected by cyberbullying, harassment, and misinformation. Social media can be a great tool, but it also has the potential to cause serious harm and has caused harm.

Young people—and their parents, guardians, and carers—are calling for strong protections. Since the release of Adolescence on Netflix, there’s been even more focus on the impact of what children are exposed to online. I’m glad to see the Government taking action by exploring solutions, engaging with stakeholders, and making the film freely available to all secondary schools.

I’m working to ensure the Online Safety Act delivers on its promises and strengthens protections not just for young people, but for everyone online. But I know many people are concerned it doesn’t go far enough. That's why I'm pushing for further changes and stronger enforcement to ensure regulators protect children’s privacy and safety, and are held to account with sanctions if they fail to do so.

If you or someone you know has experienced online abuse, please get in touch at matt.bishop.mp@parliament.uk