Prime Highlights:
A proposed bill to reduce smartphone use among teens has been watered down to gain government support, shifting from strict measures to a more gradual approach.
The revised bill calls for a government review within a year on raising the digital age of consent from 13 to 16, which would require parental consent for data collection.
Key Background:
A bill aimed at limiting smartphone use among young people has been significantly watered down in order to secure government support. The legislation, initially introduced by Labour MP Josh MacAlister, proposed measures to ban smartphones in schools and restrict the use of addictive algorithms targeting teenagers. However, the revised version has shifted focus to a more gradual approach, with MacAlister describing the reduction in smartphone use as a “process” rather than a “big bang” change.
The updated bill calls on the government to assess, within a year, whether it will raise the digital age of consent from 13 to 16. This would prevent companies from collecting children’s data without parental consent until they reach the age of 16. Data Protection and Telecoms Minister Chris Bryant expressed support for the bill’s recommendations, noting that they align closely with the government’s ongoing objectives. He also revealed that the government had commissioned the University of Cambridge to conduct a feasibility study on the impact of smartphones and social media on children.
The bill further emphasizes the need for increased parental guidance on smartphone usage and urges the government to develop a research plan on the effects of social media on children within 12 months. Bryant also highlighted that the upcoming implementation of the Online Safety Act would introduce additional protections for children online, obligating social media companies to shield young users from harmful content.
The debate on the bill has been adjourned until July 11. Although private members’ bills rarely pass into law without government backing, they serve as an opportunity to raise awareness about pressing issues. Initially, the bill proposed giving headteachers the legal authority to ban mobile phones in schools and strengthening Ofcom’s powers to address addictive apps. However, in the face of government dilution, some critics, including former Education Secretary Kit Malthouse, expressed disappointment, arguing that the bill’s potential had been undermined.
