The government has pledged to ban pornography depicting strangulation and suffocation, citing concerns over its influence on violent sexual behavior. Ministers plan to amend the Crime and Policing Bill to criminalize such content, responding to warnings that extreme material is shaping dangerous norms.
Dame Diana Johnson announced the move in Parliament, stressing the need for a ban on strangulation pornography. She argued that such content fuels harmful sexual practices, particularly among young people. The decision follows a government-backed review revealing widespread availability of violent porn online.
In February, Baroness Bertin’s report urged stricter controls, finding degrading material “rife” across platforms. While campaigners welcomed the findings, some adult creators cautioned against over-policing consensual acts. Despite initial hesitation, the government now supports a ban on strangulation pornography through upcoming legal changes.
MPs debated two amendments to enforce the pledges to ban, but both faced rejection over technical concerns. Dame Caroline Dinenage highlighted alarming trends, noting that 10 million UK adults access porn monthly, with children exposed as young as nine. She warned that violent acts, like choking, are increasingly normalized through such content.
Labour’s Jess Asato also pushed for stricter regulations, emphasizing public health risks. Though her proposal failed, ministers promised revised amendments in the House of Lords. Meanwhile, Labour’s Rachel Taylor advocated harsher sentences for hate-motivated violence, which the government also endorsed.
Critics argue bans may infringe on personal freedoms, but supporters insist protections are vital. With the ban on strangulation pornography advancing, the government aims to balance safety and consent while curbing harmful influences. The Lords will review final amendments in coming weeks.
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