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Apple, Microsoft & Google block ‘new deal’ on web extremism

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By John Glenday, Reporter

November 5, 2014 | 2 min read

A coterie of technology giants have moved to scotch government calls for a ‘new deal’ on tackling web extremism by rejecting a call to action by GCHQ chief Robert Hannigan.

TechUK, an umbrella group representing 860 technology companies - including Apple, Microsoft and Google – rejected out of hand a ‘pact’ between industry and government whilst also denying claims that IT firms were in ‘denial’ over their role in facilitating terrorism and other crimes.

Julian David, chief executive of the group, said: “To ensure public confidence, both in the digital economy and our democracy as a whole, any obligations placed upon technology companies must be based upon a clear and transparent legal framework and effective oversight rather than, as suggested, a deal between the industry and government.

“He (Hannigan) is wrong to suggest that this is an issue that technology companies are in denial about. Technology firms which we represent have important legal obligations to work with government to help keep the UK safe and secure which they take extremely seriously.”

The comments follow a defence of GCHQ’s call to action by media regulator Ofcom.

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