Opened the debate
Bell argued that the government failed to provide sufficient assurances regarding free speech within the digital duty of care legislation. Bell contended that the use of government-operated online accounts, referred to as mystery shoppers or sock puppets, required clearer statutory limits and independent oversight. Bell stated that the current provision of an annual summary was inadequate and called for explicit prohibitions on using these accounts in lawful political discussions. Bell emphasised that legislation must protect citizens regardless of which party holds power.