MPs' committee supports FCA call for Online Safety Bill to cover internet ads

'The Wild West online'

Ayesha Venkataraman
clock • 3 min read

The Joint Committee on the draft Online Safety Bill has recommended major changes to its scope, including tackling harmful advertising such as scam adverts, the inclusion of which in the bill was also called for by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).

A report by the Joint Committee has set out a series of recommendations to bring more offences within the bill's ambit, and empower Ofcom to set minimum safety standards for regulated services alongside enforcement actions against those who fail to comply. "The Committee were unanimous in their conclusion that we need to call time on the Wild West online," said Damian Collins MP, chair of the Joint Committee on the draft Online Safety Bill. "What's illegal offline should be regulated online. For too long, big tech has gotten away with being the land of the lawless. A lack of regulation o...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Regulation

The impact of the Overseas Fund Regime explained

The impact of the Overseas Fund Regime explained

Initially covers UCITS funds issued in most EU and EEA member states

Mark Rendle
clock 18 August 2025 • 3 min read
Viewing Consumer Duty through the vulnerability lens

Viewing Consumer Duty through the vulnerability lens

Clients can be vulnerable in many ways

Mark Sanderson
clock 14 August 2025 • 4 min read
Why the FCA's data request demands more than compliance

Why the FCA's data request demands more than compliance

Shift towards data-driven regulation arrives at a 'pivotal juncture'

Claire Cherrington
clock 31 July 2025 • 4 min read