The neo-regulation of internet platforms in the UK

In 2020, the UK entered a consolidating phase in the development of platform regulation. The present ‘neo-regulatory’ moment has been shaped first, by Brexit (the UK’s withdrawal from the European Union) and second, by the creation of a voluntary collaborative forum by a diverse group of regulators. The regulatory forum is modelled on established UK competition regulation and also draws inspiration from colleges used in international banking regulation. It is founded on a pro-competition approach. This article retraces the key steps taken in establishing the present regulatory posture and machinery. It also illustrates how Brexit has informed recent policy moves. It is too early to know how effective the new framework will be because it still awaits the enactment of two statutes: first, regarding ‘online harms’ and second, the use of pro-competitive powers in digital markets.