The Government has today published its draft Online Safety Bill.
In response, Barnardo’s Chief Executive Javed Khan said:
"We welcome today’s publication of the Government’s draft Online Safety Bill to make the internet safer for children and young people.
"Covid-19 has exacerbated the risks facing children online, and highlighted the urgent need for regulation so that children can learn, play and socialise safely.
“We have long called for strict sanctions for companies that fail to keep children safe, so we welcome the prospect of significant financial penalties and powers to block sites for those who do not comply. We particularly welcome the proposal to place companies under a legal ‘duty of care’ towards children.
“As always the devil is in the detail and we look forward to working with the Government to make sure the new legislation is as effective as possible.”