Film-style age ratings could be applied to websites

Writing in his blog of a similar name, TrueScot reveals plans by the UK government to control the way we use the internet.

Is this just part of the government's plans to be all controlling? Or is it a genuine attempt to protect children from obscene and dangerous material, and the innocent from libelous content?

Film-style age ratings could be applied to websites to protect children from harmful and offensive material, Culture Secretary for England and Wales Andy Burnham has said. ISPs, such as BT, Tiscali, AOL or Sky could be forced, under rules he is considering, to offer internet services where the only websites accessible are those deemed suitable for children. His plans to rein in the internet, and censor some websites, are likely to trigger a major row with online advocates who ferociously guard the freedom of the world wide web. Mr Burnham reveals that he is currently considering a range of new safeguards. Initially, as with copyright violations, these could be policed by internet providers. However, new laws may be threatened if the initial approach is not successful.