UK Culture Secretary Andy Burnham says "let's give the internet DVD-style age classifications".
Of course, it’s not that simple. MP for West Bromich Tom Watson has asked for people’s views on the issue, and a huge number of comments has followed on his blog. A particular highlight for me though was John Handelaar’s comment. He points out that Burnham says:
“Leaving your child for two hours unregulated on the internet is not something you can do.”
JH then adds:
“Leaving your child unsupervised in a public library is likely to run a similar risk of exposure to age-inappropriate material.”
I’ve also contributed to the debate, blathering on for a bit, but the crux of what I’m saying is:
“I think most of what I would have said about the censorship/free speech side of the issue has already been mentioned here. But another concern that I don’t think has been bought up is the extent to which such regulations would stifle innovation and new businesses in what is still a very young industry. The need to comply with age classifications would stop many a small tech/digital media startup dead in their tracks. This is the last thing that’s needed at a time when many companies are concerning themselves with finding long-term revenue streams in a turbulent market.”
