Incoming Ofcom chair vows to take on ‘tech bros’ | Ofcom
Ofcom’s new chief has vowed to take on its “tech bros” and admitted there is now a perception that the regulator has been complacent and slow on concerns about online security.
Channel 4’s former chairman Ian Cheshire, who secured the job of overseeing the technology and media regulator, also told MPs he had personal concerns about the impact of social media on under-16s.
At the hearing before the science, innovation and technology select committee, Cheshire was asked directly whether he would take on the powerful tech companies that dominate the online world.
“Yes,” he said, adding: “This is the area that I want to explore and understand, because I think there is a clear sense that this area is either complacent or slowing down, or both.”
But he suggested Ofcom needed to be clear about what it could and could not achieve in policing technology platforms. He said he wants the platforms to come together and show that they want to do more.
He said: “I think there are some questions about what speed to apply… because I think there is a bit more restriction.
“If expectations are high and the outcome is here, I think Ofcom should do its best to figure out how to communicate that and say: ‘What’s the maximum we can do?'”
While he said it was a matter for the government to limit social media for children, he said: “I personally – as a parent and grandparent – am very nervous about social media for under-16s, but I wouldn’t want to impose that as a political or Ofcom view.”
His comments were welcomed by safety campaigners. Andy Burrows, chief executive of the Molly Rose Foundation, said: “It is very pleasing to hear from Ian Cheshire that, under his leadership, Ofcom will take on big tech and address the well-deserved perception that the regulator is complacent and slow when it comes to enforcement of the Online Safety Act.
“It’s clear that a reset is needed, and redefining what Ofcom can do effectively on online safety will be a crucial start. With proactive, assertive and robust enforcement, Ofcom can show parents up and down the country who are crying out for change that regulation works.”
Cheshire was also questioned over impartiality concerns about GB News following complaints about the right-wing network’s output. There have been complaints about individual incidents, including his interview with Donald Trump, as well as allegations that he was too close to Reform UK.
Cheshire said he would have “serious discussions” about whether politicians such as Nigel Farage should be allowed to present current affairs programs on the channel.
Under current rules, politicians are allowed to host current affairs programs on the channel as long as a diversity of views are reflected throughout the programme.
GB News said it always acted within the editorial rules.
