MPs Refuse Age Restrictions on Social Media Use
Parliament votes down proposed ban on under-16s using social media, as government seeks to expand secretary of state's powers.
In a close vote, Members of Parliament (MPs) have rejected a proposed ban on social media use for individuals under the age of 16. The measure was introduced as part of the Children's Wellbeing and Schools Bill by Conservative former minister Lord Nash, but was ultimately defeated in the House of Commons by a margin of 307 to 173.
The decision comes as the government seeks to grant additional powers to the secretary of state to potentially enact such restrictions in the future. While the current proposal was rejected, the possibility of future age-based social media limitations remains on the table.
The debate surrounding online safety and protecting young people's wellbeing has been a contentious issue for lawmakers. Proponents of the ban argued that restricting social media access for minors could help curb the negative mental health impacts and cyberbullying concerns that have been associated with heavy social media use. However, opponents raised concerns about individual privacy rights and the practical challenges of enforcing such a broad ban.
Quelle: The Guardian
