The UK government has announced plans to introduce a statutory ban on mobile phones in schools in England, replacing existing non-binding guidance. The move comes as an amendment to the children’s wellbeing and schools bill, currently stalled in the House of Lords.
Education minister Jacqui Smith confirmed the government would table an amendment to place the existing guidance on a statutory footing, creating a clear legal requirement for schools. She acknowledged the strength of feeling on the issue, stating: 'We recognise the strength of feeling on this issue, both in this house and beyond.'
The government had previously resisted a statutory ban, arguing most schools already prohibited phones. However, it capitulated to pressure from opposition peers, describing the move as a 'pragmatic measure' to secure the bill's passage. The bill is considered the biggest child protection legislation in decades, including measures such as a compulsory register for children not in school and a crackdown on profiteering in children’s social care.
Pepe Di’Iasio, general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders, said the statutory ban would not change much in practice, as most schools already have policies in place. He called for government funding for secure phone storage, such as lockers or locked pouches.
A government spokesperson criticised opposition peers for delaying the bill, accusing them of 'a dismal failure' towards vulnerable children. The Department for Education stressed that the amendment gives legal force to what schools are already doing.
