A group of 60 members of the Labour Party have sent a joint letter to the Prime Minister, calling on him to support a potential ban on social media access for children under 16, with a parliamentary vote in the House of Lords this week.
Broad Appeal Grows
The lawmakers, comprising select committee chairs, past shadow ministers and members from across the party's spectrum, are seeking to apply pressure on the government. This amid increasing demands for the UK to adopt a similar policy of Australia, which enacted a similar ban in December.
While Starmer has said he remains considering the policy, peers in the House of Lords are seeking to accelerate the process by means of an legislative addition to the current schools bill. This amendment would mandate the implementation of a age restriction within a year of the legislation passing.
“Throughout the communities we represent, we encounter the same concerns: children are stressed and sad, and struggling to concentrate on learning. They are lacking the necessary skills needed to succeed.”
Global Precedent
The missive, coordinated by Labour MP Fred Thomas, adds that “Internationally, governments are accepting the scale of this crisis and acting.” It points to implemented or proposed legislation in nations like France, Norway, New Zealand, Greece and Denmark.
“We believe the onus must be placed on technology platforms, not parents, to prevent access by minors,” the MPs state. “We would favour a framework similar to Australia’s that requires companies to take concrete measures to apply age limits.”
Practical Hurdles
This show of strength from MPs increases further pressure on the Prime Minister. Although he has earlier voiced scepticism about the practicality of a ban, he recently told MPs he was theoretically open to the idea.
Nevertheless, in recent days, government figures have stressed apprehensions that a ban could force children toward less-regulated online spaces. They argue on the need to assess further information from the rollout in Australia before enacting a UK version.
“In principle, Keir is in favour of a ban. We can all see the risks and are concerned about what is happening to the mental health of the young,” said a source close to Starmer. “But there are still big obstacles to overcome with implementation. We need to take our time and make sure we implement it correctly.”
Parliamentary Test
The Prime Minister's position will face a direct test this week when lords vote on the amendment by Conservative peer John Nash. This amendment to the children's wellbeing bill proposes introducing an age limit within 12 months the law is passed.
While the Labour leadership has not yet declared its official position on the amendment, multiple Labour peers are anticipated to support it regardless of any guidance from party managers.
Among them is ex-parliamentarian Luciana Berger, who has backed Lord Nash's amendment. She commented: “The idea for raising the social media age limit commands significant public support – across the country and within the Labour party. Social media is causing severe damage to children and we must take immediate action to shield them.”
