Part 9: Secretary of State’s functions in relation to regulated services Strategic Priorities Section 172: Statement of strategic priorities
This section introduces a power for the Secretary of State to set out a statement of the Government’s strategic priorities in relation to online safety matters. This power is similar to the existing power the Secretary of State has in the Communications Act 2003 in relation to telecommunications, management of radio spectrum and postal services.
	Before designating the statement, the Secretary of State must first consult and follow the parliamentary procedure set out in section 173.
	The statement may specify particular outcomes to be achieved with a view to delivering the strategic priorities. For example, the Secretary of State may set a target eradication rate for child sexual exploitation and abuse (CSEA) images online or look to reduce regulatory burdens on service providers.
	If a statement of strategic priorities is to be amended in whole or in part, this must be done by issuing a subsequent statement following the procedure in section 173. There are limited circumstances in which amendments may be made within a five year period, for example where there has been a significant change in government policy affecting online safety matters.