Written question WQ86366
- Asked by
- Andrew RT DaviesConservative
- To be answered by
- Minister for Health and Social Services
- Tabled
- Due
- Answered
- Time to answer
- 8 days
Question
What representations has the Minister made to the UK Government on the Online Safety Bill in relation to mental health?
Answer
Answered by Deputy Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing
The Welsh Government is committed to keeping people safe while they are online and we support the introduction of clear and consistent standards across social media platforms to improve user safety.
While ‘internet services’ are a reserved matter for the UK Government, the safety and wellbeing of people online is a priority for the Welsh Government. The UK Department for Culture, Media and Sport is leading the introduction of the Online Safety Bill. Welsh Government officials have had regular engagement with UK Government officials about the legislative proposals prior to, and following, the introduction of the Bill.
The Welsh Government has convened a cross-government strategic group on suicide prevention which aims to maximise the impact of work across departments to reduce and prevent suicides. This group will be consulted on the progress of the Bill, including on any proposed amendments which may impact upon this important area of work.
Officials will continue to work closely with the UK Government in monitoring any proposed amendments and understanding the potential impact within Wales.