Social Media Platforms (Ofcom Licensing) Bill [HL]

What the bill does

A Bill to require social media companies operating in the United Kingdom to obtain a licence from Ofcom; to empower Ofcom to set and enforce binding conditions on licensed operators; and for connected purposes.

Progress through Parliament

What 2nd reading means, and what happens next

Second reading is the first full debate on the principle of the bill. The House votes on whether it should proceed at all.

If it passes, the bill goes to committee stage, where it is examined line by line and amendments are considered.

Read the full guide to this stage: What happens at second reading of a bill

Questions about the Social Media Platforms (Ofcom Licensing) Bill [HL]

What stage is the Social Media Platforms (Ofcom Licensing) Bill [HL] at?

The Social Media Platforms (Ofcom Licensing) Bill [HL] is currently at 2nd reading in the UK Parliament.

Has the Social Media Platforms (Ofcom Licensing) Bill [HL] become law?

Not yet. A bill becomes law only when it has passed both Houses and received Royal Assent. The Social Media Platforms (Ofcom Licensing) Bill [HL] is currently at 2nd reading.

What happens next to the Social Media Platforms (Ofcom Licensing) Bill [HL]?

If it passes, the bill goes to committee stage, where it is examined line by line and amendments are considered.

Who sponsored the Social Media Platforms (Ofcom Licensing) Bill [HL]?

The Social Media Platforms (Ofcom Licensing) Bill [HL] was sponsored by Baroness Benjamin.

When was the Social Media Platforms (Ofcom Licensing) Bill [HL] introduced?

It was introduced to Parliament on 7 September 2026, at first reading.

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