Children’s Secretary, Ed Balls, said:

“The internet presents tremendous opportunities for young people, but with this come risks. Online safety is an issue of growing importance for parents and families who rightly have concerns about what their children see and do online.

New standards on internet safety mark a watershed in government and industry cooperation. I am pleased some of the biggest names in the industry, including Microsoft, Google, and Bebo are giving it their backing. In addition, our new digital code will provide a handy tool for children and parents to give them the confidence to know how to protect themselves online.

“Today’s launch of the first ever child internet safety strategy is a pivotal moment in implementing the recommendations from Professor Tanya Byron’s review. The range of measures we are introducing will ensure that, with Government and charities, some of the biggest websites continue to play their part in keeping children safe online. I’m delighted that Professor Byron will return in January to review the progress made since 2008.”