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Social Media: Disinformation

Asked by Lee AndersonReform UKDepartment for Science, Innovation and TechnologyTabled Answered 20 October 2025UIN 78590

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, what recent discussions her Department has had with representatives from (a) YouTube and (b) other social media platforms on tackling dangerous (i) DIY, (ii) lifestyle and (iii) recipe content on their platforms.

Answered by Kanishka Narayan

The Online Safety Act is being implemented by this government and introduced measures to tackle illegal content online and harmful content for children.

The child safety duties in the Act are clear on protecting children from harmful content – including dangerous substances and stunts.

Ofcom, who are responsible for enforcing the Act, engage regularly with companies as YouTube. Ministers and officials regularly engage with stakeholders, including Ofcom and social media companies, to strengthen online safety for children and adults.

We are committed to the Act and will not hesitate to go further to protect people, particularly children, where we need to.

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