Uk Cracks Down On Pornography: New Laws Target Harmful Content

UK Introduces New Pornography Laws

The United Kingdom is stepping up its approach to combat harmful pornography with the unveiling of new legal measures. Last week, amendments to the Crime and Policing Bill were published on April 10, aiming to criminalize certain pornographic content.

Ban on Incest and Child Roleplay Content

Among the new additions to the list are acts depicting incest, including those involving step or foster relationships, and pornography where adults roleplay as children. Under the new regulations, publishing such content could result in a maximum prison sentence of five years, while possession incurs penalties of up to three years for roleplay depictions and up to two years for incest.

“These new laws are a significant step in addressing the dangers of harmful pornographic content," said a representative. "They ensure that such content, which normalizes child abuse and abusive family dynamics, is no longer freely available online.”

The government is expected to release further details soon, according to a statement on Gov.uk.

Choking and Strangulation Depictions Also Targeted

In another move towards regulation, the UK government announced in November 2025 that pornographic content showing strangulation or choking would also become illegal under the Crime and Policing Bill. This decision comes after findings that such practices have been normalized through porn consumption, leading to dangerous misconceptions about their safety.

Minister for Victims and Tackling Violence Against Women and Girls, Alex Davies-Jones stated, "Cracking down on strangulation pornography is essential to protect women and signal that misogyny won't be tolerated." Andrea Simon from the End Violence Against Women Coalition echoed this sentiment, stressing the long-term harm and cognitive impacts of these acts.

Other Content Under Scrutiny

The legislation will also uphold existing bans under Section 63 of the Criminal Justice and Immigration Act 2008. These include extreme acts that endanger life or body, acts involving animals, and depictions of sexual acts with a corpse. While some acts may be legal between consenting adults, their portrayal in pornography can still be unlawful, depending on content creation and distribution circumstances.

For those affected by these issues, the NSPCC offers confidential support at 0808 800 5000, available from 10am-8pm, Monday to Friday. Childline is also accessible 24/7 at 0800 1111 for children in need of advice and support.