Call for Smartphone Ban in Schools: Labour MP Leads Charge Against ‘Doom-Scrolling’ Among Youth

Starmer is being pushed to support a prohibition on smartphones in schools to prevent kids from excessive screen time. Josh MacAlister, a Labour MP and ex-teacher, is advocating for legal reforms to strengthen the ability of parents and teachers to limit the use of screens.

Political correspondent @alixculbertson

Tuesday, October 15, 2024, 5:

Calls have been made for Sir Keir Starmer to endorse legislation that would prohibit the use of smartphones in schools, aimed at preventing students from excessive screen time, following a decision by Number 10 not to support the proposal.

Freshly elected Labour MP Josh MacAlister is urging the government to amend laws to reduce the addictive nature of social media and smartphones for youngsters, and to strengthen the ability of parents and educators to limit screen time.

On Tuesday, the ex-educator unveiled his Safer Phones Bill, which garnered support from MPs across various parties, alongside endorsements from educational unions, charities, and both current and former children's commissioners.

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A primary principle involves prohibiting smartphones in schools by law, yet a spokesperson for Sir Keir stated that the government does not intend to create legislation for this since school principals already have the authority to restrict phones in classrooms, despite lacking formal legal support.

A representative for Sir Keir stated that the bill "will not proceed," however, Health Secretary Wes Streeting expressed a degree of endorsement for the legislation, noting that "this is an extremely pertinent discussion."

Mr. MacAlister expressed his calmness and informed Sky News, "We are embarking on a persuasion effort."

Within the proposed legislation, he advocates for:

• Increasing the minimum age at which individuals can legally create social media and email accounts from 13 to 16.

• Prohibiting the use of smartphones in classroom settings by law.

• Enhancing the authority of Ofcom to safeguard children against apps that are intentionally addictive.

• Ensuring that the government will consider additional regulations concerning the design, distribution, promotion, and utilization of mobile phones by minors under 16 if necessary.

Existing recommendations for schools in England, aimed at preventing mobile phone use during school hours, are advisory only and were implemented earlier this year by the former Conservative government. The proposed legislation would enforce this as a mandatory rule.

Mr. MacAlister, the leader of an independent evaluation of children's social care under the previous administration, described a significant public health issue concerning the rising mental health challenges, sleep disturbances, and the effects of mobile phones on children at school globally.

"My sole focus is on amending legislation to safeguard our kids, limit their screen time, and ensure they enjoy a healthier upbringing," he stated.

Parents express that they are confronted with a difficult decision: to either prevent their children from using smartphones, thereby risking social isolation, or to allow them access, with the concern of exposing them to potential negative consequences.

"We must develop shared guidelines that assist parents and educators in making improved decisions for kids."

"Kids are becoming aware of the negative effects associated with excessive negative news consumption."

Doom-scrolling refers to the habit of continuously browsing through bad news or negative content on the internet for prolonged periods without taking a break.

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Mr. MacAlister refuted claims that introducing legislation would morph the UK into a "nanny state," asserting that it is indeed the government's responsibility to establish regulations for major technology firms.

He noted that if the government does not take action, demands for a total ban on smartphones for children are likely to increase, making things more difficult for the technology sector.

"The MP stated, 'I would directly tell them to participate, get involved, and contribute to shaping the regulation. This will safeguard children and allow you to continue working within the UK market. By doing so, you maintain public support for the incredible efforts of the tech industry without compromising the safety of children.'"

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