In a bold move, over 60 Labour MPs have written to party leader Keir Starmer, urging him to back a ban on social media access for under-16s. The cross-spectrum group, which includes select committee chairs and former frontbenchers, is seeking to put pressure on the Prime Minister as calls mount for the UK to follow Australia’s lead.
The letter, organised by Plymouth Moor View MP Fred Thomas, paints a concerning picture of the crisis facing young people. “Across our constituencies, we hear the same message: children are anxious, unhappy, and unable to focus on learning,” the MPs write. They note that governments worldwide are recognising the severity of this issue and taking action, citing legislation in countries like Australia, Denmark, and France.
The signatories argue that the onus must be placed on technology platforms, not parents, to prevent underage access. They express support for a model similar to Australia’s, which requires companies to take meaningful steps to enforce age limits.
The letter has garnered support from a diverse range of Labour figures, including Education Select Committee chair Helen Hayes, Housing and Local Government Committee chair Florence Eshalomi, and former Whip Vicky Foxcroft. It has also received backing from both the left and right of the party, such as Richard Burgon and the prominent “blue Labour” MP Jonathan Hinds.
The weight of this Commons support will undoubtedly increase pressure on the Prime Minister, who has previously been sceptical about the effectiveness of such a ban but has now indicated a willingness to consider it in principle.
However, government sources have stressed that concerns remain about the potential for a ban to push children towards the “dark web.” They suggest that Starmer may offer symbolic support for the measure, but that the government will take its time to “iron out” any implementation challenges.
The issue will be put to the test this week, as peers vote on an amendment to the Children, Wellbeing and Schools Bill that would enact an age limit within 12 months. Labour has not yet revealed its position, but several peers, including former MP Luciana Berger, are expected to back the amendment regardless of whip instructions.
As the debate continues, the future of young people’s digital lives hangs in the balance, with Labour MPs determined to see decisive action taken to protect their wellbeing.