Web searches for child abuse images will be blocked for the first time by Google and Microsoft after mounting pressure. New software is to be introduced that will automatically block 100,000 "unambiguous" search terms which lead to illegal content.
Prime Minister David Cameron admitted there is "still more to be done" to remove child abuse images from the internet, but stressed "huge progress" has been made.
Speaking after a summit at Downing Street, Mr Cameron said: "It's worth remembering we were told that cleaning up searches when people search vile terms, we were told it couldn't be done and we were told it shouldn't be done, for reasons of free speech.
"Well, we're now being told by the industry it can be done and it will be done."
These are dramatic new steps which will make the internet safer and better for children, a leading Internet safety expert writes.
The search engines have stepped up to the plate - their reforms will help remove video child abuse content more quickly and comprehensively.
Former chief of CEOP Jim Gamble said the government must ask whether they are doing enough in the internet safety debate.