Ministers consider forcing TV industry to better protect women after David Walliams allegations

Ministers are considering legal measures to make the entertainment industry better protect women and children from abuse and harassment. Culture secretary Lisa Nandy is expected to meet industry leaders next week, with the government hoping sectors will strengthen protections voluntarily but prepared to intervene if action is judged inadequate.

The debate follows allegations that David Walliams used his status to exploit young women; he denies wrongdoing. Ministers have also raised concern about powerful men using injunctions or non-disclosure agreements to silence accusers. One possible measure is requiring companies to join the Creative Industries Independent Standards Authority, which provides confidential whistleblowing channels.