MPs Push For TikTok Strategy As Platform Grows As News Source For Young People

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The government urgently needs a TikTok strategy to reach young people who are moving away from traditional media and use the platform as a primary news source, a group of MPs have said.

In a report published on Friday the cross-party Culture, Media and Sport Committee pressed the government to harness TikTok to help fight misinformation and engage younger demographics.

Recent findings from Ofcom revealed TikTok as the main news source for one in ten youths aged 12 to 15. Meanwhile, a staggering 71% of 16-24-year-olds turn to social media for news, either supplementing or replacing conventional news websites.

The committee’s report released Friday argues for the deployment of “trusted voices” — such as scientists and doctors — to debunk myths and spread factual information amidst the spread of conspiracy theories on social platforms.

Highlighting the fast-paced evolution and influence of new apps, the committee stressed the necessity for the government to stay agile and transparent in its communication strategies.

Dame Caroline Dinenage, committee chairwoman, emphasised that the approach of involving scientific experts during the pandemic should be a model for ongoing public communication efforts.

“With the spread of misinformation on social media remaining a very real problem, it’s more important than ever that communities across the country have access to accurate and authoritative information,” she stated.

The recommendation comes as the government plans to implement the Online Safety Act, which mandates rapid removal of illegal misinformation by social platforms.