The government believes that Ofcom is best placed to consider this recommendation. As the independent regulator, Ofcom has the discretion to determine which measures are included in its consultation process. However, the government acknowledges that any measures proposed in the codes must be designed for the purpose of compliance with the relevant duties. Consequently, these measures must align with those duties, including where they pertain to the definitions of regulated providers and content. The OSA takes a proportionate and risk-based approach to online harms, primarily addressing content that is illegal or harmful to children. Its framework establishes foundational safeguards to protect users on in-scope services from illegal material online and implements measures to prevent children from accessing harmful age-inappropriate content. We agree with the Committee that, following the public disorder in summer 2024, it is appropriate that providers are given clear guidance on how to respond to crises that may lead to the rapid spread of illegal content online. In June 2025, Ofcom launched consultations on new measures to inform future iterations of its codes of practice. These include proposals for a crisis response protocol, which would outline additional actions for providers during periods of heightened risk such as real-time monitoring, direct engagement with law enforcement, and post-crisis reviews. These measures are intended to apply not only to large providers assessed as medium risk, but also to any provider of any size identified as high risk for terrorism, threats, abuse, harassment, or foreign interference. Ofcom’s approach will reflect the operational differences between providers, in line with the principle of proportionality embedded in the Act. As implementation of the OSA progresses, evaluating the effectiveness of its provisions remains a key priority for the government. This includes ensuring that actions which are illegal offline are addressed adequately online, while safeguarding freedom of expression. As set out in the government’s manifesto, we will continue to assess whether further steps are needed to strengthen the framework in future.