A NORTH-EAST MP has welcomed the government’s endorsement of her proposals to force social media companies to remove harmful content from their platforms.

In 2016, Redcar MP Anna Turley introduced a private members bill which sought to place a ‘duty of care’ on social media platforms so they are responsible for monitoring and removing harmful online content to protect users.

Yesterday, the Government announced they would introduce a new online regulator responsible for ensuring a new ‘code of practice’ is adhered to by social networks and internet companies .

The regulator would have the power to fine companies and publish public notices naming and shaming the rule breakers, as well as introducing blocks on harmful websites or stopping them from being listed by search engines.

Ms Turley said: “Calls for action to protect our young people online have been made repeatedly for many years now. Social media companies have been dragging their feet while there has been an epidemic of bullying and abuse on their sites.

“My bill two years ago proposed an independent regulator with the power to take on social networks and internet companies who fail their users. It has sadly taken teenage suicides to spur action but I am pleased the government have finally taken on board our suggestions."