SOCIAL media giants should publish users' names and addresses, ending online anonymity, in order to tackle online abuse, a Southend MP has suggested.

Southend West MP Sir David Amess called for the measures in order to protect users from anonymous attacks from so-called internet trolls.

Cabinet Office minister Chloe Smith said it is up to the companies themselves to take action.

Speaking during Cabinet Office questions Sir David said: "Now that we have a Government elected with a majority can we please address the situation whereby people can post online abuse without having to have their names and addresses published?"

Responding for the Government, Ms Smith said: "I think first of all companies need to tackle such abusive behaviour and take responsibility for that on their services.

"And I think that could include taking steps to limit the abuse or abuse of anonymity.

"What I would add is that this Government is also taking forward measures to put digital imprints on online political material and that will be a way to help voters see who is saying what and hold it to account."