Covid-19 Disinformation 2020-04-27

2020-04-27

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Response quality

Questions & Answers

Q1 Direct Answer
Context
Rob Roberts inquired about steps taken by the Department to address disinformation related to coronavirus.
Rob Roberts asked what further work can be done with the media to provide useful and accurate information to the public about support for vulnerable people and struggling businesses during the crisis.
Oliver Dowden thanked Rob Roberts and acknowledged the importance of trusted information. He mentioned that the Government designated news industry workers as key workers, addressed keyword blocking issues affecting advertising revenue, and ensured direct communication through government ads.
Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2 Direct Answer
Context
Dame Cheryl Gillan questioned the effectiveness of social media industry initiatives to warn people about misinformation and their willingness to remove harmful messages.
She asked for an assessment of the industry's initiatives to combat disinformation, including warnings to users and removal of abusive content.
Oliver Dowden noted that platforms have taken steps but need to further limit misinformation. He mentioned agreements for more messaging to users about identifying and responding to disinformation, with Facebook showing messages to those who interacted with removed posts since his meeting.
Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q3 Direct Answer
Context
Julian Knight highlighted the spread of disinformation by blue-tick verified users, emphasizing harmful narratives like those regarding 5G.
He requested that Oliver Dowden join him in calling for stricter measures from Twitter to remove verified status from prominent users spreading false information.
Oliver Dowden agreed with Julian Knight, stating that he encouraged all platforms, including Twitter, to explore ways to limit misinformation by enforcing their own rules. He also said he would watch the Select Committee discussion on these issues closely.
Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy