Summarised by Centrist
MPs are demanding that social media platforms like X, TikTok, and Facebook be held to the same legal standards as newspapers and TV stations amidst concerns over their role in inciting violence.
This follows the arrest of a man in the UK city of Leeds for stirring up racial hatred on social media.
Tory MP James Cleverly stated, “It is unacceptable for them to take the profits but not comply with their responsibilities.”
Labour MP Josh Simons, who previously worked in AI for big tech, argued, “Tech bosses can’t expect to have power that far outstrips any newspaper editor, without any of the responsibilities.”
Chris Curtis, also a Labour MP, added, “There’s a direct line from the disinformation and hate spread on these platforms to broken windows and burned down shops in our communities today.”
Social media companies have faced criticism for allowing algorithms to promote “conspiracy theories”, leading to unrest and violence.
Despite efforts from No10 to work with tech companies to remove harmful content, MPs are urging for stricter measures and enhanced powers under the Online Safety Act.
Robert Jenrick, a Tory leadership hopeful, called for action from watchdog Ofcom and the police to hold online ringleaders accountable.
Editor’s note: Holding Big Tech accountable may be warranted, but there is a risk that increased regulation could lead to censorship.
What is considered harmful, hateful, disinformation, conspiratorial, etc. can be highly subjective. Preserving free speech is essential to avoid stifling legitimate expression and debate.
