Written questions by McKinnell.

Innovation and Technology, what assessment he has made of the adequacy of Ofcom’s delivery of its statutory duties on media literacy.

The government supports Ofcom’s three-year Media Literacy Strategy as a solid foundation for delivering its updated media literacy duties. The Strategy sets out a credible programme focused on strengthening the evidence base, engaging platforms to improve user support and design, and commissioning targeted interventions. We welcome its emphasis on harmful online activity affecting women and girls, and its commitment to supporting teachers through continuing professional development.Ofcom is required to publish annual progress reports against its strategy.The government works closely with Ofcom to ensure it has the powers and resources needed to fulfil its duties effectively.

Innovation and Technology, what assessment she has made of the adequacy of legislation governing the livestreaming of violent content.

The Online Safety Act (OSA) requires services to safeguard children and reduce the risk that they are used to facilitate illegal activity. Ofcom, the regulator, sets out the steps in its codes of practice that providers can take to fulfil these duties. It has issued the first versions of the codes and is updating these iteratively. Ofcom has recently consulted on additional measures for livestreaming. The Act establishes that the Secretary of State must review the functioning of the Act within 2-5 years of the regime taking effect.

Innovation and Technology, with reference to the press notice entitled New online safety priorities for Ofcom and launch of study into effects of social media on children, published on 20 November 2024, what progress has been made on research into the impact of social media use on children.

The department is developing the evidence base around children’s online safety, including social media use, to continually inform our policy response.As part of this, DSIT commissioned a feasibility study into research on the impact of smartphones and social media on children. This six-month study considered methods to gather causal evidence of any impact and reviewed existing research. It was led by expert researchers from UK universities. We will publish the feasibility study report in due course.We are considering next steps, based on the study’s findings. They will inform any future research involving young people, parents and carers.

Innovation and Technology, what discussions he has had with Cabinet colleagues on media literacy.

Ministers have regular meetings with Cabinet colleagues on a wide range of issues, including media literacy. The government is committed to a coordinated, cross-government approach to media literacy policy and delivery.

Innovation and Technology, what steps she is taking to roll out gigabit connectivity to remaining properties in Newcastle upon Tyne North constituency.

According to the independent website Thinkbroadband.com, almost 96% of premises in the Newcastle upon Tyne North constituency can already access a gigabit-capable broadband connection (>=1,000 Mbps).We have created a pro-competition regulatory environment for the rollout of gigabit broadband. We expect further premises in the hon. Member’s constituency to be connected via broadband suppliers’ commercial rollout.Any premises which do not receive a gigabit-capable connection through suppliers’ commercial rollout will be considered for inclusion within Project Gigabit, in line with the government’s commitment to achieving nationwide gigabit coverage by 2032.