MP Calls for Urgent Action on Social Media Regulation Following Recent Riots

In light of recent rioting, Sheffield Labour MP Clive Betts has urged for the expedited implementation of the Online Safety Act, which was passed in 2023. The legislation aims to curb the use of social media platforms for illegal activities, including racially aggravated public order offences. Currently, the new regulations are not set to take effect until 2025, but Betts argues that the ongoing disorder necessitates immediate action to hold social media companies accountable for user safety. Betts emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “This is a real challenge now,” and criticized the current lack of accountability for tech firms. He pointed out that while these companies claim to monitor accounts and posts, they have failed to effectively address issues of incitement and racial hatred on their platforms. The MP called for a swift establishment of a regulatory framework to ensure that social media companies are held responsible for the content shared on their sites. Additionally, concerns were raised about the amplification of misogyny and hate speech on social media, which contrasts sharply with the standards imposed on traditional media outlets. Betts and other advocates argue that the disparity in regulation poses significant challenges in addressing harmful content online. The BBC has reached out to Facebook and X for comments regarding these pressing issues, as the debate over social media regulation continues to gain momentum.