By Canadian Press

Liberal, Conservative MPs join international task force to curb anti-Semitism online

Oct 1, 2020 | 2:03 AM

OTTAWA — Liberal MP Anthony Housefather and Conservative MP Marty Morantz are joining an international task force aimed at making web giants do more to combat anti-Semitism online.

Politicians from Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States are also involved in a bid to draft policies that social media platforms could use to address the issue.

Housefather says none of the companies want to create country-specific policies on the issue and the hope is that if all legislators can agree on an approach, it’s more likely to see results.

The task force is getting underway just as the federal Liberals promised in last week’s throne speech to take more action to curb online hate as part an effort to address systemic racism.

Housefather says the group’s initial work predates that pledge but he hopes it can support the government’s own efforts.

Imminent need

Council set to discuss possible location for homeless shelter on 15th Street

2h ago

International Spotlight

P.A.'s Howe one of 4 Sask. born players named to Canada's World Junior roster

18h ago

National

Ottawa to remove 30% investment cap for Canadian pension funds

22h ago

The Tory MP in the group, Marty Morantz, says efforts to stamp out anti-Semitism online must also be understood as being part of efforts to protect all groups from hate speech. 

This report by The Canadian Press was first published October 1, 2020.

The Canadian Press