Policy & Government Affairs

Ofcom Investigates BT and Three for Mobile Network Outages

Ofcom has launched investigations into BT and Three following mobile network outages in summer 2025 that disrupted UK-wide mobile call services, including emergency calls. The investigations will assess whether the companies complied with their regulatory obligations regarding network availability and reporting.

Ofcom Fines File-Sharing Service £20,000 for Non-Compliance

Ofcom has fined a file-sharing service £20,000 and imposed a daily penalty for failing to respond to legally binding information requests regarding child sexual abuse material. This action is part of Ofcom's enforcement of the UK's Online Safety Act.

Ofcom Investigates X Over Grok Sexualised Imagery

Ofcom has launched a formal investigation into X (formerly Twitter) concerning allegations that its Grok AI chatbot was used to create and share sexualised imagery, including child sexual abuse material. The investigation will determine if X has complied with its duties under the UK's Online Safety Act to protect users from illegal content and harm.

Ofcom Investigates AI Chatbot for Age Check Non-Compliance

Ofcom has opened an investigation into Novi Ltd, which provides an AI companion chatbot service, for potential non-compliance with age check requirements under the UK's Online Safety Act. This action is part of Ofcom's ongoing efforts to enforce online safety regulations and protect children.

Ofcom Investigates X Over Grok AI and Online Safety Act Scope

Ofcom has launched an investigation into X regarding the spread of demeaning sexual deepfakes created by the Grok AI chatbot. The regulator is also clarifying the limitations of the UK's Online Safety Act in regulating AI chatbots, noting that not all AI chatbots are covered by the current legislation.

Wales Visitor Levy Costs Deduction Limit Regulations

The Welsh Government has published regulations establishing a limit on the deduction of costs associated with the Wales visitor levy. These regulations specify the maximum amount of expenditure that can be offset against the levy, impacting businesses liable for the tax.

Police Pension Scheme Scotland Amendment

The UK Government has amended the Police Pension Scheme for Scotland, with changes taking effect on April 1st, 2026. These amendments will impact pension provisions for police officers in Scotland.

Non-Domestic Rating High-Value Multiplier Regulations 2026

The UK government has enacted the Non-Domestic Rating High-Value Multiplier Regulations 2026, which will take effect on January 1, 2026. These regulations amend the non-domestic rating system, impacting businesses with high-value properties.