The UK Parliament's discussion on misinformation laws highlighted concerns regarding their impact on preventing violence, particularly during the 2022 riots linked to false social media claims. Baroness Jones confirmed the Online Safety Act addresses misinformation, while MPs questioned its effectiveness post-riots. The violence, fueled by racially charged misinformation about a stabbing, saw rioters targeting minority communities. Despite the act's implementation, tech platforms claimed it wouldn't have changed their responses, exposing regulatory gaps and raising doubts about the enforcement responsibility of Ofcom for misinformation.
The Online Safety Act, effective March 17, 2025, aims to address misinformation which contributed to the UK riots following false claims after a tragic incident.
Officials emphasized a lack of duty for Ofcom to manage misinformation, raising concerns regarding the act's effectiveness in preventing future violence.
MP Steve Race noted tech companies claimed the Online Safety Act wouldn't have influenced their actions during the violence following the Southport attacks.
Baroness Jones of Whitchurch stated that both misinformation and disinformation fall under the scope of the Online Safety Act, highlighting its importance.
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