Theresa May uses Manchester speech to warn that ‘coarsening’ online debate is threat to democracy.

Theresa May (Image: PA)

The Prime Minister is speaking this morning in Manchester - the birthplace of the suffragette movement - on the 100th anniversary of milestone legislation that allowed some women over 30 to vote for the first time.

Theresa May is to use a Manchester speech marking the centenary of women’s suffrage to take on internet trolls and social media giants - warning ‘coarsening’ online debate is a threat to democracy.

Speaking on the anniversary of the Representation of the People Act 1918, which allowed more than eight million women to vote for the first time, she is expected to highlight a growing ‘tone of bitterness and aggression’ within public discourse, particularly where female, gay or ethnic minority politicians are concerned.

Outlining a raft of measures aimed at cracking down on aggressive trolling, the Prime Minister will announce an annual audit aimed at ensuring platforms are stamping out online abuse.

Legislation covering the issue will also be reviewed, while a ‘code of practice’ for social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter will be published later this year.

By Jennifer Williams.

Full story at Manchester Evening News.