Government slammed as proposed social media ban for under-16s set to be axed
A proposed blanket ban on social media use for under-16s is potentially in danger of being reversed next week despite previously being backed by the House of Lords.
The government is instead pushing for a more adaptable mandate that would allow children to be blocked from “certain internet services” rather than a hard age limit for those under 16.
If MPs approve the change under the Child Welfare and Schools Act, ministers will gain new powers to impose social media curfews or restrict young people’s screen time.
Crucially, while the Lords called for an outright ban on user-to-user platforms, the revised proposal gives ministers discretion over the specific measures to be implemented.
Lord Nash, who referred the ban to the Upper House, described it as a “blank cheque”.
The government launched an online safety consultation on Monday exploring a range of issues, including whether social media platforms should have a minimum age rating and whether platforms should turn off addictive features such as autoplay.
Lord Nash told the Press Association: “The government’s change confirms that they remain decidedly undecided about how best to protect children.
“In fact, it is clear that raising the age limit for harmful social media platforms to 16 is far from the preferred option.
“MPs must choose on Monday to act now and raise the age limit for harmful social media to 16 or vote for the Government’s amendment, which is essentially a blank cheque and promises only further delay while negotiations continue.
“This consultation is another opportunity for big tech companies to mobilize their lobbyists and water down potential measures before they reach the statute book.”
Lord Nash, a former Conservative minister, added that he supported RaiseTheAge.org.uk’s letter-writing campaign ahead of Monday’s debate on the bill in the House of Commons.
He said his proposal, which was supported by 261 votes to 150 (111 majority) in January, was “the only legislative instrument on the table that would force the Government to raise the age limit for harmful social media platforms.”
He said MPs should support his proposal “without hesitation” rather than the Government’s proposal.
Technology Minister Liz Kendall, who launched the consultation earlier this week, said: “We know parents everywhere are grappling with how much screen time their children should be spending, when they should give them a phone, what they’re seeing online and the impact of all this.”
He called on children and parents to take part in the Government’s consultations.
“Together, we will create a digital world that gives young people the childhood they deserve and prepares them for the future,” he said.
