MPs Reject Lords-Backed Social Media Ban for Children for Second Time
In a decisive parliamentary move, MPs have rejected calls for a default ban on children accessing social media platforms for a second time. The vote, which saw 256 MPs oppose and 150 support the measure, resulted in a majority of 106 siding with the Government's alternative approach.
Government Gains Flexible Power to Curb Social Media Use
As part of the Children's Wellbeing and Schools Bill, ministers are set to acquire a wide, flexible power to regulate children's social media usage. This authority could encompass various measures including curfews, scrolling limits, and restrictions on location sharing. The Government could also opt to block under-16s from specific platforms deemed harmful.
A consultation, scheduled to close next month, has been established to assist ministers in determining appropriate actions. Education minister Olivia Bailey emphasized to the Commons that this approach allows addressing "a much wider range of services and features" compared to the narrower amendment proposed by the Lords.
Parliamentary Ping Pong Continues
The rejection marks another stage in the legislative "ping pong" between the Commons and the House of Lords. Conservative former minister Lord Nash had originally proposed a default ban on children using harmful social media platforms, with peers initially agreeing to this measure. However, MPs in the Commons, where the Government holds a majority, voted last month to reject it in favor of the flexible power approach.
Despite the Lords insisting on the default ban, MPs have again backed the Government's position during the process to finalize the Bill's wording. Lord Nash has indicated he intends to maintain his position, stating: "The Government's approach is to sit and wait, to let the harms mount up."
Political Reactions and Concerns
Conservative shadow education secretary Laura Trott voiced strong opposition, pledging to "keep fighting until the Government offers a ban on social media on the face of the Bill." She highlighted concerning social media impacts, noting that children learn to seek external approval through likes and attention, particularly through sexualized content, which reshapes their self-perception and value.
Munira Wilson, the Liberal Democrats' education spokeswoman, expressed concern that ministers might choose not to act at all, as the Bill's wording states they "may" rather than "will" make provisions. Labour MPs urged swift action once the new powers are granted, with John Whitby emphasizing: "We need to get on with it."
Additional Measures and Next Steps
In related votes on Wednesday, MPs also rejected a review of proposed limits on branded school uniform items and blocked a bid to ban smartphones during the school day. However, school leaders in England will face a new duty to consider Government guidance on mobile phone use in educational settings.
The Lords must now reconsider the Commons' position before the Bill can become law, potentially prolonging the stand-off between the two Houses. The outcome of the consultation closing on May 26 will be crucial in shaping the Government's final approach to protecting children from social media harms.
