In a recent call for action, Wes Streeting, the former health secretary and a potential contender for the Labour leadership, has urged Keir Starmer to take decisive steps against social media platforms like X, which he claims incite violence and unrest. His comments come in the wake of riots in Belfast, highlighting the responsibility of these companies to contribute to the costs of restoring order and rebuilding communities impacted by their platforms.
A Growing Concern Over Online Incitement
Streeting’s remarks were made following troubling incidents where social media posts contributed to heightened tensions. He condemned the online rhetoric, particularly from influential figures such as Elon Musk, who have been linked to incitement following a violent knife attack in Belfast. This incident is part of a worrying trend, as similar provocations were observed during the unrest in Southampton related to the tragic case of Henry Nowak, a teenager who died after being wrongfully accused of racism.
The former minister stressed the need for immediate action, stating, “We’re long past the time for threats. We have to act. Incitement to violence is a crime in the offline world, so it must be prosecuted as a crime in the online world.” He argued that if social media companies knowingly promote dangerous content, their executives should face criminal charges.
Legislative Challenges and Delays
Currently, the Online Safety Act mandates that social media platforms remove illegal content, including posts that incite violence, with oversight from Ofcom, the media regulator. However, compliance reports from X will not be submitted until at least two months from now, raising concerns over the effectiveness and timeliness of current regulations.
Ministers are also looking to amend the Online Safety Act to enhance the speed at which platforms must act during crises. Yet, this proposed amendment must undergo a parliamentary review, delaying its implementation until mid-July at the earliest.
In stark contrast, when X faced backlash for inappropriate content produced by its Grok AI tool, Starmer quickly threatened the platform with restrictions unless it addressed the issue. This raises questions about the government’s prioritisation of online safety, especially regarding incitement to violence.
Government’s Stance on Accountability
Responding to Streeting’s concerns, a spokesperson for Downing Street reiterated the government’s condemnation of any attempts to incite division or violence. They emphasised that platforms have a legal obligation to remove illegal content and that Ofcom has the government’s full backing in enforcing these regulations. However, the lack of immediate action against X for its role in the recent riots has drawn criticism from various quarters.
Why it Matters
The discourse surrounding social media’s role in promoting violence is increasingly crucial in today’s digital age. As platforms continue to wield immense influence over public sentiment, the call for accountability grows louder. Wes Streeting’s advocacy for legal repercussions and financial responsibility for these companies highlights a pressing need for robust regulations that protect communities from the dangers of online incitement. The effectiveness of these measures will ultimately shape the future of online discourse and public safety in the UK.
