Fylde MP welcomes social media ban on under-16s - 'but it should not have taken so long'
“The important thing now is ensuring these measures are implemented properly and technology companies are held accountable for keeping young people safe”
Fylde MP Andrew Snowden has welcomed the Government's decision to introduce a ban on social media for under 16s, describing it as a long overdue step to better protect children from harmful content online.
The Government announcement followed months of pressure from bereaved families, campaigners, health professionals and the Conservative Party which repeatedly called for stronger action to tackle the impact of social media on young people.
Mr Snowden points out that Labour MPs voted against proposals by the Conservatives - his party - to introduce a ban on social media for under 16s on three separate occasions.
But after the Prime Minister confirmed that the Government will adopt the policy, the Fylde MP said: "I welcome the Government finally listening to the concerns of parents, campaigners and young people themselves by introducing this ban.
"For too long, children have been exposed to harmful, violent and inappropriate content online, often without actively seeking it out.
“Parents across Fylde regularly raise concerns about the impact social media is having on their children's wellbeing, mental health and safety.
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"Labour spent months resisting these proposals and voting against them, only to now adopt exactly the policy they previously opposed. While this change is welcome, it should not have taken so long.
"Protecting children online should never be a political issue. The important thing now is ensuring these measures are implemented properly and that technology companies are held accountable for keeping young people safe."
Research has highlighted growing concerns about the impact of social media on children and young people, including exposure to violent content, pornography, online exploitation and harmful eating disorder material.
Studies have also found that a significant majority of young people believe their relationship with their phones is unhealthy.
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Laura Trott MP, Shadow Education Secretary, said: "It’s shameful that it’s taken the Prime Minister’s job to be on the line for the Government to finally ban social media for under-16s.
"Three times Labour voted against a ban, failing to stand up to Big Tech and protect children from the extreme content they are exposed to every day.
"As Conservatives we did not give up, I kept fighting for the brave bereaved parents, health professionals, and campaigners who continued to make the case for change.
“This victory belongs to them. This change will finally help parents and protect childhood."