More than 60 members of the Labour Party have penned a letter to the Prime Minister, pressing him to back a proposed ban on social media access for children under 16, ahead of a crucial vote in the the Lords this week.
Broad Support Emerges
The signatories, comprising senior MPs, ex-ministers and representatives from both the left and right of the party, are seeking to apply pressure on the administration. This follows increasing demands for the UK to emulate the approach of Australia, which enacted a similar ban in December.
While Starmer has indicated he is receptive to a ban, peers in the House of Lords are attempting to bring the matter to a head by means of an legislative addition to the Children, Wellbeing and Schools Bill. This amendment would require the introduction of a prohibition within a year of the bill becoming law.
“In all of our areas, we are told the same story: children are anxious, unhappy, and finding it hard to focus on learning. They are lacking the necessary skills needed to flourish.”
Global Precedent
The communication, which was organised by Labour MP Fred Thomas, further argues that “Around the world, governments are accepting the seriousness of this problem and implementing measures.” It notes implemented or proposed legislation in nations like France, Norway, New Zealand, Greece and Denmark.
“We believe the onus must be shifted to technology platforms, not parents, to prevent underage access,” the MPs state. “We would favour a model akin to Australia’s that obligates companies to take concrete measures to apply age limits.”
Policy Challenges
This show of strength from MPs increases further focus on the Prime Minister. Although he has in the past shown doubts about the workability of a ban, he recently informed MPs he was theoretically open to the concept.
Nevertheless, recently, government figures have stressed concerns that a ban could unintentionally drive children toward the dark web. They have insisted on the need to assess further information from the Australian policy before deciding on a UK version.
“On paper, Keir is for a ban. We can all see the harms and are concerned about what is happening to the mental health of the young,” stated an associate. “But there are still big obstacles to overcome with implementation. We need to proceed carefully and make sure we get this right.”
Upcoming Vote
The Prime Minister's approach will face a practical test this week when peers vote on the proposed change by Conservative peer John Nash. This amendment to the schools bill proposes introducing an minimum age one year after the bill's passage.
While the Labour leadership has not yet declared its stance on the amendment, a number of Labour peers are expected to support it regardless of any party whip.
Among them is ex-parliamentarian Luciana Berger, who has co-signed Lord Nash's amendment. She argued: “The idea for raising the social media age limit has widespread backing – across the country and across the Labour party. Social media is profoundly hurting children and we must act now to safeguard them.”
