MPs vote against social media ban for under-16s a second time

"The House of Commons rejected a Lords amendment to the children's wellbeing and schools bill that imposed a new age limit on using social media platforms, amid pressure from parents and campaign groups for greater urgency in tackling online harms."

"Instead of the narrow amendment proposed in the House of Lords, our consultation allows us to address a much wider range of services and features, said Olivia Bailey MP, the government's early education minister."

"As well as considering raising the age limit on social media from 13 to 16, the government consultation is also looking at addressing the addictive nature of social media platforms by restricting features such as infinite scrolling."

"Parents rightly expect action and fast. That's why we've already taken the powers needed to move quickly on this issue, said Keir Starmer before his meeting with social media companies."

MPs voted against a proposal to ban under-16s from using social media for the second time, siding with the government on tackling online harms. A Labour amendment was passed, granting the government additional powers to implement age restrictions after a consultation closes next month. The government is also considering addressing the addictive nature of social media. Keir Starmer is set to meet with social media leaders to push for faster action on internet safety, reflecting parents' demands for urgent measures.

Read at www.theguardian.com