Internet Sharing Videos - 10th Jul, 2007

Sian James MP has raised with the Home Secretary the concerns of constituents about internet sharing websites which allow anti-social behaviour to be viewed

Sian James MP said:-

"There are some great films on these websites, which allow people to demonstrate their amateur cinematography or upload other entertainment clips, for the enjoyment of everyone.

"It is the case however that some internet sharing websites are allowing acts of violence, criminal damage and anti-social behaviour to be shown.

"I asked the Home Secretary at Home Office Questions, what she is doing to give the police more powers to deal with these concerns.

"The Home Secretary told me that she believes it unacceptable for such criminal acts to have been committed in the first place and then uploaded onto these sorts of sites.

"She added the need to look at the matter in two stages. First, criminal law already covers the first offence of the attack—whether it is assault, wounding, actual or grievous bodily harm or antisocial behaviour.

"Secondly, someone who records a violent offence could be criminally liable for uploading it either because they have committed the offence being filmed or because they were involved in planning it and would therefore be open to charges of conspiracy, incitement, aiding and abetting or being involved in a joint enterprise to commit the offence.

"The Home Secretary said that uploading the video as well as taking part in the offence could be an aggravating factor when sentencing is considered.

"I am pleased that the Home Office will now keep this matter under review. There is a need to continue working with the police and internet service providers to ensure that we limit unacceptable activities."