Tackling Online False Information in the UK: the online safety act and its potential implications for free speech

Abstract

It is commonly recognised that the publication of false information can be harmful to the public sphere. The UK government’s answer to this problem is the Online Safety Bill (soon to be the Online Safety Act) which will place statutory responsibilities on regulated services to prevent the publication of certain false information. In this seminar, Dr Peter Coe will interrogate the regime’s compatibility with established free speech law and theory. Ultimately, he will suggest that there is a disconnect between the legislation and the legal and theoretical principles underpinning free speech, which could have insidious and long-lasting implications for the right and our public sphere.  

Places are limited and so any academic colleagues or students interested in attending in person should register. Registration form here.