Child Sexual Abuse Material (Digital Devices) Bill

Key Points

• Creates a new power under the Customs and Excise Management Act 1979 to require access to digital devices during a lawful inspection where there is reasonable suspicion of CSAM.
• Refusal to grant access would be an offence.
• Applies to devices encountered during the inspection and to data held on those devices as part of the inspection process.
• Bill is currently at the 2nd reading in the House of Commons; the 1st reading occurred on 15 May 2024, with further steps expected to include committee consideration.
• Part of policy areas including Transport, Crime & Justice, and Technology.

Progress

The bill is at the 2nd reading stage in the House of Commons. If it passes, it will move to committee stage and then further stages in both Houses.