Labour closes online loopholes to strengthen child safety protections

The Labour government is stepping up action to protect children online by strengthening the Online Safety Act and closing loopholes that allowed AI chatbot providers to avoid illegal-content responsibilities. Companies will now face clear enforcement if they fail to safeguard young users.

A forthcoming consultation on children’s digital wellbeing will examine risks such as AI chatbot exposure, VPN access, addictive platform design, and the age of digital consent. Backed by new fast-track powers, ministers will be able to act swiftly on findings — demonstrating Labour’s determination to ensure the digital world is safe for children.