Big tech companies could be required to root out "legal but harmful" online content under UK Government proposals, prompting fears about a chill on free expression.

The Home Office is pushing for sweeping new powers that would require internet companies to monitor and remove such content, with little indication of what "legal but harmful" means at present.

Critics fear the proposed measures could catch the expression of views that are considered controversial in the current political context, including religious views on biology and sexual ethics.

The plans will form part of the government's Online Safety Bill, a wide-ranging piece of legislation aimed at tackling various illegal activities as well as protecting children from explicit content such as pornography.

Commenting on the Online Safety Bill, a spokesperson for CARE said:

"CARE supports measures to provide for age verification on all pornographic websites announced by Digital Minister Chris Philp earlier this month. We have campaigned for this safeguard for years and urge Ministers to see it enacted as soon as possible.

"We are keenly aware of free speech concerns tied to other aspects of the government's online safety regime. The proposals on 'legal but harmful' content have the potential to curb free expression and religious liberty if Ministers don't get them right.

"Vague speech laws have clear problems. Westminster need only look at the Scottish Government's recent Hate Crime Bill for proof of that. We will be monitoring the UK Government's proposals closely in the months ahead and championing the central importance of free expression."

Read a Q&A on the Online Safety Bill by CARE's James Mildred.

Q&A on Online Safety Bill