HL Deb 18 March 2003 vol 646 cc16-7WA
The Earl of Northesk

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they consider arrangements for the funding of the Internet Watch Foundation, aimed at creating a safe environment for Internet use, particularly by children, are adequate; and, if not, whether they have any plans to offer financial assistance. [HL1984]

Lord Falconer of Thoroton

The Internet Watch Foundation (IWF) performs a unique and valuable role in Internet self-regulation through administering its hotline, which enables users and Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to report suspected child pornography and obscene or racist material on the net. The IWF's take-down procedures enable the Internet industry to remove illegal content from their systems, while relevant information is passed on to the police.

The Government support the work of the IWF and the development of a broader funding base for its work as set out in its recent review of governance. We believe self-regulation is the appropriate framework for the UK Internet industry and that the IWF should continue to be industry funded. We fully support moves to encourage the wider Internet industry to play as full a part as possible in terms of financial assistance and in other ways, to ensure the continuing effectiveness of the IWF.