David Cameron has proposed plans to help parents protect their children online by adapting their computer settings to block internet pornography, violence and other unsuitable websites.

The plan will allow parents to control their child’s ability to access social networking sites, while users setting up the filters will be mandated to confirm their age with internet service providers.

The UK MP Claire Perry has been appointed as the adviser on avoiding the sexualisation and commercialisation of children as well as making sure proposals go through and internet service providers implement the new proposals.

"All this comes back to something really important," Cameron said. "It’s not just about the internet, or modern technology, it’s about childhood.

"These should be distinct and precious years, full of security and love, untainted by the worries and complexities of adulthood."