"MPs have rejected a proposed ban on social media for under-16s despite earlier backing from peers and campaigners including actor Hugh Grant. The age limit, modelled on an Australian-style ban, was supported by those who argued parents face an "impossible position" regarding online harms affecting their children."
"However, critics such as the NSPCC warned that such a ban could instead drive teenagers into unregulated corners of the internet. The amendment to the Children's Wellbeing and Schools Bill, introduced by Conservative former minister Lord Nash, was defeated by 307 votes to 173, a majority of 134."
"Under the amendment in lieu, Science Secretary Liz Kendall could restrict or ban children of certain ages from accessing social media services and chat bots. She could also limit children's VPN use, restrict access to addictive features."
MPs defeated an amendment proposing an outright ban on social media for under-16s by a vote of 307 to 173, despite earlier support from peers and campaigners including actor Hugh Grant. Supporters argued parents face an impossible position regarding online harms to children, citing Australian and French models. Critics, including the NSPCC, warned such bans could drive teenagers toward unregulated internet spaces. However, the Commons approved a Government amendment granting the Secretary of State additional powers to restrict or ban children of certain ages from accessing social media services, chat bots, and potentially limit VPN use and restrict addictive features.
Read at www.independent.co.uk
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