MPs call for simpler terms on social sites

Social media companies must simplify the conditions of using their services because they are so impenetrable that "no reasonable person" can be expected to understand them, MPs have said.

Complicated terms and conditions that allow firms like Facebook access to a wealth of personal information and even control a user’s phone are drafted for use in American court rooms, according to the science and technology committee.

It called for the Government to draw up new guidelines for websites and apps to sign up to that commit them to explaining clearly how they use personal data, warning that laws will be needed if companies fail to comply.