Michael Grade confirmed as Ofcom chair despite MPs’ warning

Former BBC chair will lead watchdog even though report said his knowledge of social media and online safety clearly lacked depth

Michael Grade has been confirmed as chair of the communications watchdog despite MPs warning that he has a clear lack of depth" of knowledge about social media and online safety.

The former BBC chair will lead Ofcom, which will play a key role in regulating large social media platforms and search engines in the UK, as the body charged with implementing the landmark online safety bill. However, the digital, culture, media and sport committee said on Friday that it was concerned by Lord Grade's admission this week that he does not use social media but is aware of how it works thanks to his children.