Celebrities and Bereaved Parents Demand Immediate Social Media Ban for Under-16s
Singer Peter Andre has issued an urgent plea alongside actors Hugh Grant and Sophie Winkleman, warning that parents are facing "enormous pressure" regarding children's social media access. The high-profile figures have called for a ban on social media platforms for children under 16 to be implemented without any "delay", adding their voices to a growing campaign for stronger online protections.
Cross-Party Pressure Mounts in Parliament
The celebrities have joined forces with charities and bereaved parents, including Esther Ghey – mother of murdered teenager Brianna Ghey – to urge peers in the House of Lords to support a crucial vote today. This vote concerns an amendment to the Children's Wellbeing and Schools Bill that would introduce the proposed social media prohibition for under-16s.
In a direct letter addressed to Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch, and Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey, the coalition implored political leaders to instruct their members to back the amendment. The letter emphasised that safeguarding children should "always rise above politics" and that the current bill presents a vital opportunity to protect childhood.
Government Consultation Launched Amidst Calls for Action
This public pressure comes as ministers have initiated a swift three-month consultation on potential measures to protect children online. The consultation is examining various options, including:
- Establishing a minimum age for social media use
- Implementing phone curfews for young people
- Restricting access to addictive applications
However, the celebrity-led coalition argues that consultation should not delay immediate legislative action, stating that parents are in an "impossible position" and desperately need leadership from Westminster.
Technology Secretary Acknowledges Complexities
Technology Secretary Liz Kendall addressed MPs yesterday, acknowledging the significant challenges in this policy area. She stated that any action to limit children's social media use carries inherent "risks" regardless of the approach taken, but firmly promised that the Government "will act robustly".
Kendall highlighted the divided opinions on the matter, noting that while many support a clear ban as the best way to protect children from online harms, others express concerns that a ban might:
- Allow online platforms to evade responsibility
- Push harmful content and interactions further underground
- Deprive children of social media's positive aspects, such as connecting with peers and accessing support networks
The Secretary emphasised that a proper consultation and national conversation represents the "right and responsible way forward" given these complexities.
Broad Coalition of Supporters
The letter calling for immediate action boasts an impressive list of signatories from various sectors, including:
- Dr Emily MacDonagh, doctor and author
- Frank Young, Chief Policy Officer at Parentkind
- Daniel Kebede, General Secretary of the National Education Union
- Justine Roberts, Founder and Executive Chair of Mumsnet
- Representatives from numerous child safety organisations and campaigns
This development follows a separate letter from over 60 Labour MPs to Keir Starmer, urging him to implement a social media ban for under-16s, particularly after Australia introduced similar restrictions last month. The convergence of celebrity influence, parental advocacy, and political pressure creates a powerful momentum for change in how the UK approaches children's digital safety.
