I got a response from my MP over the Onlnie Safety Act! And it seems like she read my email as I got my actual concerns at least acknowledged… Given it isn’t a form response, I can accept the delay in response! As with my initial letter, the response is below

I appreciate you taking the time to share your concerns so comprehensively, and I understand that this legislation has raised a number of important questions among individuals, families, and members of the tech and digital communities.

Your points about data privacy, the potential impact on small websites and community forums, the unintended consequences around access to online resources for young people, and the rise in VPN usage are all noted. These are significant considerations, and I understand your concerns about how the Act may affect both individual freedoms and innovation within the UK’s digital landscape.

It is important that any legislation aimed at improving online safety also carefully balances the need to protect users—especially children—with the right to privacy, freedom of expression, and the viability of smaller platforms and start-ups. I also note your concerns regarding how some elements of the public discourse on this issue have been handled, and the strength of feeling you’ve expressed on the matter.

While Parliament has now passed the Online Safety Act, scrutiny of its implementation will continue, and I will bear your views in mind in any related debates, discussions, or reviews going forward. Ensuring digital safety, freedom, and fairness must be approached with care, transparency, and a willingness to listen to those affected.

Thank you again for getting in touch and for engaging so constructively on this issue.