MPs Reject Lords-Backed Social Media Ban for Children for Second Time
The Government is poised to secure broad and adaptable authority to regulate children's social media usage, potentially implementing measures such as curfews, scrolling restrictions, and limits on location sharing. This development follows a decisive parliamentary vote where MPs rejected calls for a default ban on children accessing harmful social media platforms for the second time.
Parliamentary Vote and Government Position
In a vote held on Wednesday 15 April 2026, MPs sided with the Government by a margin of 256 to 150, resulting in a majority of 106. This decision supports the Government's strategy to address social media-related harms affecting children through the Children's Wellbeing and Schools Bill. The proposed legislation grants ministers flexible powers to curb children's social media use, which could include curfews, scrolling limits, and restrictions on location sharing. Additionally, the Government retains the option to block under-16s from specific platforms deemed harmful.
Consultation and Legislative Process
A consultation has been established to assist ministers in determining the appropriate actions to take, with a closing date set for next month. This process is part of the broader legislative framework, often referred to as "ping pong," where the Commons and Lords negotiate the final wording of bills. Conservative former minister Lord Nash had initially proposed a default ban on children using harmful social media platforms, with a 12-month implementation window, which peers in the Lords supported. However, MPs in the Commons, where the Government holds a majority, voted last month to reject this amendment in favour of the flexible power approach. The Lords insisted on the default ban, but MPs have now reaffirmed their backing for the Government's position.
Political Reactions and Statements
Education minister Olivia Bailey addressed the Commons, stating, "Instead of the narrow amendment proposed in the House of Lords, our consultation allows us to address a much wider range of services and features." In response, Conservative shadow education secretary Laura Trott expressed her commitment to continue advocating for stricter measures, saying, "I will keep fighting until the Government offers a ban on social media on the face of the Bill." This highlights the ongoing political debate surrounding the balance between flexible regulatory powers and more stringent bans to protect children's wellbeing online.
