Parliamentary Search

Written question asked by Edward Morello (Liberal Democrat) on Friday, 29 May 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 2 June 2026. It was answered by Kanishka Narayan (Labour) on Monday, 8 June 2026 on behalf of the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology.

Internet: Offensive Weapons

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, what steps his Department is taking to help tackle harmful online trends promoting the use of catapults to harm animals.

Answer

The Government has taken robust action to clamp down on illegal content online, including material involving weapons and animal cruelty.

Under the Online Safety Act, platforms must take proactive steps to reduce the risk of illegal content, including the promotion of harm to animals or the illegal use of weapons, and remove such content when identified.

Ofcom is responsible for enforcing compliance with these duties and has wide-ranging enforcement powers including issuing significant fines. We engage regularly with social media companies regarding their duties under the Online Safety Act.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
4801
Session
2026-27
Grouped for answer
Yes
Subjects
Animal welfare Internet Offensive weapons
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk