Britain rejects automatic block on pornography

The British government has rejected proposals for an automatic block on online pornography. It feared that an "opt-in" system under which people would have to request that their internet connection give them access to adult material could create "a false sense of security" because it would not screen out all harmful content.

There were also concerns that it could have blocked websites that gave children access to "helpful information on sexual health or sexual identity".

David Cameron ordered a consultation on an automatic blocking system after MPs said internet service providers needed to do more to protect children from harmful images. Campaigners, led by Claire Perry, a Tory MP, handed a petition of 115,000 names into Downing Street demanding an opt-in system for pornography.

However, the Government's consultation response on Friday said it would instead rely on the voluntary co-operation of internet companies to strengthen controls on pornography and promote awareness. It will now urge the companies to "actively encourage parents, whether they are new or existing customers, to switch on parental controls".

Providers could be made subject to legislation if the Government feels they are not making enough of an effort to protect children. The NSPCC supported an opt-in. It said the tougher controls were "a step in the right direction" but they should have "gone further".