Parents have expressed concerns to the government regarding proposals to prohibit teenagers from using social media, cautioning that such actions could be risky and put British children at a disadvantage. The government is contemplating measures such as curfews and potentially implementing a ban on social media use for children, similar to the approach adopted in Australia, to enhance online safety for youngsters.
These considerations have arisen from a consultation involving parents and young individuals to explore strategies for safeguarding children while they engage with social media. The Department for Science, Innovation, and Technology initiated the consultation in response to calls for more robust online safety regulations, as there is a belief among parents and advocates that the current Online Safety Act does not offer adequate protection for children on the internet and social platforms.
Furthermore, the consultation is expected to examine the possibility of requiring social media platforms to disable features that promote excessive use, like infinite scrolling and autoplay functions on video content, which may lead children to stay up late at night.
In addition, the government will evaluate the restriction of children’s access to AI chatbots as part of the discussions with parents and young individuals on new online safety measures.
Technology Secretary Liz Kendall and Prime Minister Keir Starmer have committed to promptly amending regulations based on the feedback collected from the consultation, possibly as early as this summer. Nevertheless, some parents remain doubtful about the effectiveness of a ban, cautioning that it could be unsafe or disadvantageous for British children.
One parent shared their perspective, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach that educates teenagers on responsible social media usage rather than implementing a complete ban. They suggested a phased approach, proposing a ban for those under 13, gradual access to specific apps for ages 13-16, and full access for 18-year-olds, with a focus on teaching teens how to navigate social media responsibly.
Separate surveys tailored for adults and children will be launched, with the consultation set to conclude on May 26. The government aims to make decisions regarding potential bans or curfews during the summer months.
To facilitate swifter regulatory changes, the government is preparing to deploy powers that enable rapid adjustments to the law without a lengthy parliamentary process, akin to the one that led to the Online Safety Act. However, concerns have been raised about the use of these expedited powers, known as “Henry VIII powers,” as they have been criticized for circumventing parliamentary scrutiny in the past.
Alongside the consultation process, the government plans to initiate a “national conversation” on online safety, incorporating community events, discussions led by MPs in their constituencies, and engagement within schools. Additionally, an academic panel will analyze emerging evidence from countries like Australia, which has enforced a ban on under-16s accessing major social media platforms.