Online News Platforms (Regulation) Bill

A Bill to regulate online news platforms; and for connected purposes.

Originating House

House of Commons

Parliament last updated

25 March 2019

In Plain English

AI-generated

May contain errors — check source documents for definitive information.

This Bill aims to regulate online platforms that publish or host news content. It would establish a regulatory framework for how these platforms operate and handle news material, with the aim of improving accountability. It is currently at the second reading in the House of Commons.

Key Points

Regulates online news platforms and their handling of news content.
Originated in the House of Commons and has progressed to the second reading.
Aims to set out rules and responsibilities for platforms operating in the online news space.
Subject to the usual parliamentary process, with further stages required if it progresses.

Progress

The bill had its first reading in March 2019 and is now at the second reading in the Commons; if it advances, it would go through further stages in both Houses.

Who is affected?

Online news platforms and their owners/operatorsPublishers and journalists who rely on online platformsReaders and members of the public who access online newsAdvertisers and the advertising industry linked to online newsRegulators and government bodies responsible for enforcementTech platforms that host or distribute news content

Generated 21 February 2026

Bill Stages

1st readingCommons

11 Mar 2019

2nd readingCommons

Committee stageCommons

Report stageCommons

3rd readingCommons

1st readingLords

2nd readingLords

Committee stageLords

Report stageLords

3rd readingLords

Royal Assent

Updates & Documents

News (1)

News - Online News Platforms (Regulation)

1 Jan 1970

The Bill failed to complete its passage through Parliament before the end of the session. This means the Bill will make no further progress.

Documents (1)

Bill 355 2017-19, as introduced

BillCommons

20 Mar 2019

Parliamentary Votes (0)

No recorded votes for this bill yet.