The UK government is poised to announce new restrictions on Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) from Wednesday, as the Labour Party prepares to issue a further update on the Online Safety Act. Technology Secretary Liz Kendall has hinted that additional measures targeting VPNs could be introduced, alongside the previously announced ban on children accessing social media and AI chatbots by 2027.
Kendall's Comments on BBC Breakfast
During an appearance on BBC Breakfast, Ms Kendall confirmed that she would return in July with a statement regarding VPNs. She stated: “I said I’d come back in July with a further statement around VPN but also additional measures we want to look at, further restrictions on AI chatbots that parents have found very worrying, more overnight curfews or breaks in doomscrolling for 16 and 17 year olds.”
She emphasised the urgency of the measures, noting that the sooner a decision is made on the ban, the sooner it can be implemented through Parliament. “Because many families are desperate for this to happen and I listen particularly to bereaved families that say the longer we delay this, the more children are put at risk. And I took that very seriously,” she added.
Background of the Online Safety Act
The Online Safety Act, which continues despite the resignation of Sir Keir Starmer, has been rolling out in stages. Earlier this month, Ms Kendall announced a law change that will ban children from social media and AI chatbots by 2027. The announcement was the first of several measures aimed at protecting young people online.
In her previous statement to the Commons, Ms Kendall outlined plans for further details once pilot schemes are completed. She said: “I will set out further details once our pilot schemes are finished in my next statement in July.” She acknowledged that not everyone supports a ban, citing the experience in Australia where many children try to circumvent restrictions.
Measures to Enforce the Ban
To address concerns about children bypassing the ban, Ms Kendall announced the introduction of “more highly effective age assurance measures” to support compliance. She has asked Ofcom to share proposals on these within months. She clarified that the ban aims to help future generations and reset social norms, rather than solely targeting current young people.
Regarding fears that a ban might push children onto riskier, less regulated sites, Ms Kendall said she has had a long conversation with and written to Ofcom and its new chair, stressing that enforcement of both the Online Safety Act and the new ban must be a top priority. She requested an urgent review of whether Ofcom has the right capabilities in place, and asked for a clear enforcement strategy and an annual report to Parliament on progress.
Imminent Update from Government
With July set to begin on Wednesday, an update from the government is imminent. Ms Kendall’s statement will address VPN restrictions and additional measures, including further limitations on AI chatbots and overnight curfews for 16 and 17 year olds. The Labour government continues to push forward with the Online Safety Act, aiming to create a safer online environment for children.
