The Truth Matters campaign officially launched at the Labour Conference with a clear mission: to tackle the growing threat of misinformation and disinformation spreading across online and social media platforms, most notably during election periods. The campaign brings together a cross‑party coalition determined to clean up the digital space and restore trust in public discourse.
The launch event was attended by a powerful line-up of public figures including Dame Angela Eagle MP, Phil Brickell MP, Tom Rutland MP, Cheshire Police and Crime Commissioner Dan Price, and campaign Founder Praful Nargund, alongside council leaders and representatives from local government.
The event was also attended by the Centre for Countering Digital Hate.
Truth Matters is a new cross-party initiative focused on challenging false and misleading content online, supporting greater transparency and accountability from tech platforms, and cleaning up the online political conversation.
The campaign proposes a focused amendment to the Elections Bill, adding electoral disinformation to the Online Safety Act’s list of harms. Section 106 of the Representation of the People Act (1983) already bans dishonesty and fabrication surrounding candidates – but in reality is often not enforced. The proposed amendment will add electoral offences to the list of online harms, bringing forward additional enforcement for Section 106 to online platforms, clarify Ofcom’s enforcement role, protect free speech and avoid criminalising any speech not already illegal.
Speaking at the event, Phil Brickell MP said:
“Online misinformation and disinformation is a serious threat to our democracy, our institutions, and the safety of our communities. Tackling this challenge head-on is essential if we want to rebuild public trust in a digital age.”
Dame Angela Eagle MP, added:
“The rise of online misinformation is a major challenge. When lies spread faster than facts, it weakens democracy, fuels division, and puts people at real risk. We need a safer, more honest digital space. That is what this campaign is about.”
Praful Nargund added:
“It was brilliant to have support from MPs, Police and Crime Commissioners, and council leaders at our launch. Tackling online misinformation requires leadership across every level of public life and this was a powerful show of commitment.”
The campaign marks the start of a wider, cross-party movement to push for reforms to the online information environment. With further events and announcements planned, Truth Matters is laying the foundations for a more honest, transparent and responsible digital future.