Many parents in Hertsmere have raised concerns with me the use of social media by under-16s.
As a parent of teenagers myself, I share parents' concerns and agree that a minimum age for usage offers parents and schools a stronger framework. Of course, it is important to take a proportionate approach that weighs up the benefits of social media against its harms. However, I think it is telling that the very people who designed such technology frequently ban their own children from using it.
When I visit schools in Bushey such as Queens’ School, St Margaret’s School or Immanuel College, or schools near Radlett such as Haberdashers School or Yavneh College, teachers tell me that pupils enjoy the benefits of technology, but they are increasingly aware of the dark side of the digital world.
There is clear evidence that social media platforms are exposing young people to extreme content, including pornography, violence, knife crime and sextortion, every single day. It is affecting wellbeing, behaviour and attainment and is sadly the norm, not the exception.
In Parliament, I recently voted for two common-sense measures: to remove smartphones from schools and to raise the minimum age for social media access to 16.
Sadly, this was opposed by the government which instead backed an amendment that allows them to delay meaningful action or pursue weaker measures such as curfews. In my view, this does not meet the scale of the challenge.
While other countries are increasingly recognising the harms associated with social media and are beginning to take stronger action to protect children, the UK risks falling behind – and it’s our children who are paying the price.
The debate however is far from over. I will continue pressing the government to move faster and further to support parents and schools and to ensure children are better protected online.
Given the strength of feeling on this issue, I would encourage you to respond to the government's “Growing Up in the Online World" consultation so that your voice can be heard.
