The UK government is moving to outlaw barely legal pornography amid growing concerns about adult content that sexualizes underage appearances. Conservative peer Baroness Bertin plans to introduce legislation this autumn banning online material that could encourage child sexual exploitation.
Recent media coverage of adult performers specializing in youthful-looking content has intensified calls for stricter regulation. Children’s Commissioner Dame Rachel de Souza has led criticism against material that “blurs dangerous boundaries” and could harm young viewers.
The proposed crackdown on the barely legal pornography ban specifically targets content labeled as barely legal pornography, where adult performers are styled to appear underage. “This content pushes unacceptable boundaries,” Baroness Bertin stated. Her amendments to the Crime and Policing Bill would require platforms to remove such material.
While the Online Safety Act restricts underage access to porn, current laws don’t prohibit adults role-playing as minors. Performers creating content that mimics child sexual abuse scenarios remain technically legal if all participants are consenting adults.
“Content that sexualizes the appearance of children has no place online,” Bertin emphasized. The legislation within the barely legal pornography ban would force platforms to remove material that could normalize or encourage exploitation of minors.
The debate has sparked controversy within the adult entertainment industry, with some arguing the proposals could lead to excessive censorship. However, child protection advocates maintain the changes are necessary.
Dame Rachel warned: “The normalization of this degrading content undermines efforts to protect children from harmful sexual material.” Ofcom, empowered by the Online Safety Act, is expected to take a stronger stance on borderline content.
Critics of the proposed barely legal pornography ban argue it could infringe on adult performers’ livelihoods. However, Bertin maintains society must prioritize child protection: “It’s not prudish to reject content that blurs the boundaries of child exploitation.”
As Parliament prepares to debate the barely legal pornography ban, the outcome could significantly impact UK content moderation laws and online safety standards. The government appears determined to close what it sees as dangerous loopholes in current legislation.
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