TheDigitalArtist / Pixabay
The United Kingdom (UK) Government has opened up a “public consultation” process on a proposed set of laws to keep its citizens away from harm while they use the world wide web.
The ‘Online Harms White Paper’ put out, explains the government’s plans for a “world-leading” package of Online safety measures that also supports innovation & a thriving digital economy. This package comprises legislative & non-legislative measures, & is expected to make companies more responsible for their users’ safety Online, especially children & other vulnerable groups.
The announcement said if passed, companies will be held to account for tackling a comprehensive set of Online harms, ranging from illegal activity & Content to behaviors which are harmful but not necessarily illegal, said the Online Harms White Paper.
The views sought include the following:
- the Online services in scope of the regulatory framework;
- options for appointing an independent regulatory body to implement, oversee & enforce the new regulatory framework;
- the enforcement powers of an independent regulatory body;
- potential redress mechanisms for Online users;
- measures to ensure regulation is targeted & proportionate for industry.
This is an open public consultation. The UK Govt has appealed to individuals, activists, organizations, companies, etc to submit their views, insights or evidence.
This consultation closes at 23:59, 1 July 2019.
Here’s the link.