More than 60 Labour MPs have penned a letter to the Prime Minister, urging him to champion a suggested prohibition on social media access for children under 16, prior to a crucial vote in the the Lords this week.
Widespread Pressure Mounts
The lawmakers, comprising committee heads, past shadow ministers and representatives from across the party's spectrum, are seeking to apply pressure on the prime minister. This follows mounting pressure for the UK to adopt a similar policy of Australia, which enacted a similar ban recently.
While Starmer has indicated he is considering the policy, peers in the House of Lords are attempting to accelerate the process via an legislative addition to the key legislation. This amendment would force the implementation of a prohibition within 12 months of the act receiving royal assent.
“Across our constituencies, we are told the same story: children are worried and distressed, and struggling to concentrate on learning. They are failing to develop the social skills needed to succeed.”
International Action
The missive, which was organised by Labour MP Fred Thomas, further argues that “Around the world, governments are accepting the severity of this issue and taking action.” It highlights implemented or proposed legislation in countries like Denmark, France, Norway, New Zealand and Greece.
“We believe the onus must be placed on technology platforms, not parents, to stop access by minors,” the MPs write. “We would back a model like Australia’s that requires companies to take significant action to enforce age limits.”
Policy Challenges
This show of strength within the lower house places further focus on the Prime Minister. While he has earlier voiced scepticism about the practicality of a ban, he recently stated to MPs he was receptive in theory to the concept.
However, recently, officials have highlighted concerns that a ban could force children toward less-regulated online spaces. They have insisted on the need to gather more data from the rollout in Australia before committing to a UK version.
“On paper, Keir is in favour of a ban. We can all see the harms and are concerned about what is happening to children and teenagers,” commented an insider. “But there are still big obstacles to overcome with putting it into practice. We need to move cautiously and make sure we do this properly.”
Upcoming Vote
The Prime Minister's position will face a practical test this week when members of the upper house vote on the proposed change by Conservative peer John Nash. This amendment to the legislation proposes enacting an age limit within 12 months the act is approved.
Although the Labour leadership has not stated its voting intention on the amendment, multiple Labour peers are anticipated to support it despite any guidance from party managers.
Among them is former MP Luciana Berger, who has backed Lord Nash's amendment. She commented: “The proposal for increasing the social media age limit commands widespread backing – throughout the UK and inside the Labour party. Social media is catastrophically harming children and we must take immediate action to safeguard them.”
