Celebrities like Peter Andre, Hugh Grant, and Sophie Wilkinson are advocating for the implementation of a social media ban for individuals under 16 years old with immediate effect. This push follows the launch of a rapid three-month consultation by government officials to consider setting a minimum age requirement for social media usage and exploring additional measures such as phone curfews and limitations on addictive apps.
In a joint letter addressed to prominent political figures including Keir Starmer, Kemi Badenoch, and Sir Ed Davey, the celebrities, alongside charities and grieving parents, stressed the urgency of supporting a proposed amendment to the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools bill that aims to enforce the social media ban on minors. They highlighted the challenges faced by parents in managing their children’s access to adult-oriented platforms and emphasized the need for decisive action from policymakers.
The letter emphasized that child safeguarding should transcend political divides, urging swift action through practical legislative measures to protect childhood innocence. Additional signatories to the letter include Dr. Emily MacDonagh, Frank Young from Parentkind, NEU’s Daniel Kebede, and Mumsnet founder Justine Roberts.
This call for a social media ban for under 16s gained momentum after over 60 Labour MPs urged Mr. Starmer to consider a similar ban following Australia’s recent implementation of such regulations.
The Technology Secretary, Liz Kendall, acknowledged the complexities involved in regulating children’s social media usage, highlighting the risks associated with various approaches. However, Kendall assured that the government is committed to taking robust action to address these concerns.
While some advocate for an outright ban on social media for minors as a protective measure against online harms, others express concerns about potential negative consequences, such as restricting positive aspects like connecting with peers and accessing support. Kendall emphasized the importance of engaging in consultations and fostering public dialogue to determine the most responsible course of action.
Hugh Grant and Sophie Winkleman, as patrons of Close Screens Open Minds, joined the voices advocating for stricter regulations on underage social media access, along with other notable figures like Peter Andre, Dr. Emily MacDonagh, and Justine Roberts. The collective effort aims to promote safer online environments for children and adolescents.