To ask Her Majesty's Government what steps they are taking to prevent the use of social media and encrypted messaging apps to supply and access illegal drugs.
Answered on
18 March 2019
It is unacceptable and irresponsible for tech companies to allow criminals to exploit their services and we expect companies to take action and report illegal activity to the police
A robust law enforcement response is a fundamental part of the Government's drug strategy and we are taking coordinated action to tackle illegal drugs alongside associated criminal activity. Law enforcement agencies continue to work with internet service providers to shut down UK-based websites found to be committing offences such as selling drugs controlled under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971.
The joint Home Office and Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) Online Harms White Paper will be published shortly, setting out how we will tackle online harms and set clear responsibilities for tech companies to keep UK citizens safe.