Starmer orders tech companies to block naked images of children within three months
Sir Keir Starmer has told tech companies they must introduce device controls to prevent children sending or receiving sexually explicit images or the government will legislate to force the change.
The Prime Minister rejected the idea that parents should “accept” the dangers of modern technology, saying “the pace of change is no excuse for harm”.
Speaking at London Technology Week, the Prime Minister said: “One of the problems is that children with phones can send and receive nude images.
“For too long people have been told that this is the price of modern technology, that nothing can be done, that the Government is powerless, that parents must accept it.
“I completely reject this because technology needs to adapt to the needs of society, not the other way around.”
He added: “That’s why today I’m calling on tech companies operating in this country to implement device controls that stop children sending and receiving sexually explicit images.
“Because this is not an impossible challenge. These are some of the most innovative companies in the world, and I believe they can solve this.”
“But if they choose not to do that, we will take action and change the law because when it comes to the safety of our children, standing there is not an option.”
If companies fail to act within three months, the government plans to introduce legislation that will force them to activate the technology, and it is understood that fines or criminal liability are being considered for tech bosses who fail to comply.
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