Overview

This bill mandates OFCOM (the UK communications regulator) to produce annual reports recommending the establishment of an Online Harms Reduction Regulator. These reports will detail a proposed "duty of care" for online platforms to protect users and others from various forms of online harm.

Description

The bill assigns OFCOM the task of creating annual reports recommending the creation of a new Online Harms Reduction Regulator. Each report must detail a proposed "duty of care" for online platform service operators. This duty would require operators to take reasonably practicable steps to prevent foreseeable harms to their users and others affected by their services. The types of harm to be addressed include terrorism, harm to children and vulnerable adults, hate speech (racial, religious, based on sex or sexual orientation), discrimination, fraud, intellectual property crime, electoral interference, and other harms deemed appropriate by OFCOM.

The bill defines key terms such as "online platform service operator," "protected characteristics," and various forms of hate speech, drawing upon existing legislation for clarity. The first report is due within one year of the bill's enactment, and a draft bill creating the regulator is due within a year of the first report being presented to Parliament.

Government Spending

The bill itself does not directly specify any government spending figures. However, the creation of a new regulator (as recommended by the bill) would likely incur significant costs related to establishment, staffing, and operation. Further government expenditure might be required to support enforcement of the new regulations.

Groups Affected

• Online Platform Service Operators: These companies will face new regulatory burdens and potential liabilities for failing to meet the duty of care.
• Users of Online Platforms: May experience increased safety and protection from online harms.
• Vulnerable Groups: Children, vulnerable adults, and those targeted by hate speech or discrimination may benefit from greater protection.
• Government: Will face increased responsibilities in overseeing the regulator and enforcing the new regulations.
• OFCOM: Takes on the significant responsibility of producing annual reports and shaping the future of online harms regulation.

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