The incoming chair of Ofcom has vowed to confront the 'tech bros' and acknowledged that the media regulator is perceived as having been complacent and sluggish on online safety. Ian Cheshire, former Channel 4 chair, who is set to oversee the technology and media regulator, also expressed personal concerns about the impact of social media on children under 16.
Confronting Tech Giants
During a hearing before the science, innovation and technology select committee, Cheshire was asked directly whether he would take on powerful tech companies. He responded affirmatively, stating: 'It is the area I want to probe and understand, because I think there is clearly a perception that it has been either complacent or slow or both.' However, he suggested that Ofcom needs to be realistic about what it can achieve in policing tech platforms, urging the platforms themselves to collaborate and demonstrate a willingness to do more.
Challenges in Enforcement
Cheshire noted constraints on the speed of action, saying: 'If expectations are up here and the delivery is here, I think Ofcom has to take it on the chin to work out how to communicate that and say: What's the maximum we could do?' On the issue of limiting social media for children, he said it is a matter for the government, but added: 'I am personally – as a parent and grandparent – very nervous about social media under 16 personally, but I wouldn't want to impose that as a political or an Ofcom view.'
Reaction from Campaigners
Safety campaigners welcomed his comments. Andy Burrows, chief executive of the Molly Rose Foundation, said: 'It's refreshing to hear from Ian Cheshire that under his leadership, Ofcom will take on big tech and address the deserved perception the regulator is complacent and slow when it comes to enforcing the Online Safety Act.' He added that a reset is needed and redefining Ofcom's role on online safety is a crucial start.
Concerns Over GB News
Cheshire was also challenged on impartiality concerns regarding GB News, following complaints about its output, including an interview with Donald Trump and allegations of closeness to Reform UK. He said he would have 'serious conversations' about whether sitting politicians like Nigel Farage should be allowed to present current affairs programmes. Under current rules, politicians can do so as long as a range of views is reflected. GB News maintains it acts within broadcasting rules.
Ofcom Intensifies Tech Regulation
On Thursday, Ofcom signalled a step-up in regulating tech firms, vowing to 'force through' online safety changes and accusing TikTok and YouTube of not doing enough to protect children. The watchdog warned that personalised feeds serve harmful content to under-18s and said the platforms had not committed to significant changes. Ofcom indicated it would order an independent audit of systems used by YouTube, TikTok, and Meta (owner of Instagram and Facebook) to protect children. TikTok expressed disappointment, noting its safety features, while Meta said it has invested in safety measures for over a decade. YouTube was approached for comment. Ofcom also noted that Snapchat, Meta, and gaming platform Roblox agreed to adopt further safety measures against online grooming.
Government Consultation
Ofcom's announcement came as the government consults on improving online child safety, with options including an Australia-style ban on under-16s accessing social media. MPs from the Commons education committee supported a ban and urged restrictions on 'addictive' app features like infinite scrolling and disappearing messages. Committee chair Helen Hayes urged ministers to act 'before it is too late'.
