David Cameron has attacked Facebook as “irresponsible” for lifting a ban on videos of beheadings being posted on its site.
Facebook indicated it could introduce warnings for viewers, but insisted the website should be a place where people could share their experiences about controversial events.
Mr Cameron wrote on Twitter: “It’s irresponsible of Facebook to post beheading videos, especially without a warning. They must explain their actions to worried parents.”
Shadow crime and security minister Diana Johnson joined the condemnation, saying: “It is entirely unacceptable for Facebook to be hosting these disgraceful videos.
“Not only do they glorify violence, but they will be horrifying to people who accidentally view them. It is especially worrying to see Facebook allowing this content, given the huge number of children who are regular users. They should remove it now.”
Facebook introduced a temporary ban on such videos in May but has since decided to remove the block.
A spokeswoman for the website said: “Facebook has long been a place where people turn to share their experiences, particularly when they’re connected to controversial events on the ground, such as human rights abuses, acts of terrorism and other violent events.
“People are sharing this video on to condemn it. If the video were being celebrated, or the actions in it encouraged, our approach would be different.
“We are working to give people additional control over the content they see. This may include warning them in advance that the image they are about to see contains graphic content.”
Sean Gallagher, of free speech pressure group Index on Censorship, said: “Films about beheadings may be deeply upsetting but they do expose the reality of violent acts that are taking place in the world.
“When trying to draw a line about what should or shouldn’t be allowed, it’s important to look at context, not just content.”
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