The Safer Phones Bill, initially proposed to safeguard teenagers from the adverse effects of smartphone and social media use, has faced significant criticism for its diluted measures. The bill, set forth by Labour MP Josh MacAlister, calls for chief medical officers to release guidance on smartphone and social media use by children within the next year. It also tasks the education secretary with designing a research plan to examine the impact of social media on children. However, the bill's current iteration has been notably scaled back since it was first introduced in October 2024.
Among the key provisions of the bill is a proposal to raise the digital age of consent from 13 to 16. This would mean online companies could only collect data from users aged 16 and above without parental permission. The bill also aims to strengthen Ofcom's powers, enabling it to enforce a code of conduct that prevents children from being exposed to apps and services deemed "addictive by design."
Despite these measures, critics argue that the bill falls short of its original promises. An earlier version included a legal requirement for schools to become mobile-free zones, a proposal that has since been removed. MacAlister noted this change was due to the government's indication that it "was not something they were going to consider."
"Guttting of what could have been a landmark bill."
— Kit Malthouse, a former education secretary
Further criticism comes from Kit Malthouse, who described the revisions as the "gutting of what could have been a landmark bill." He accused the government of having "dithered, diluted and capitulated" on an issue where swift action is necessary for the welfare of young people.
MacAlister defended the bill, stating that reducing smartphone use through legislation would be a gradual "process" rather than an immediate overhaul. He emphasized his close collaboration with the government to propose "practical measures" aimed at addressing the issue.
The Liberal Democrats have joined in criticizing the government's approach, accusing it of making "ponderous progress" on an issue requiring urgent attention. Joe Ryrie, leader of the Smartphone Free Childhood campaign, echoed these sentiments, describing the current proposals as "nowhere near enough."
"Nowhere near enough."
— Joe Ryrie, leader of the Smartphone Free Childhood campaign
The bill's proposals align with findings from a recent report highlighting young people's concerns about social media. The report revealed that more than 60% of young people believe social media causes more harm than good, while three-quarters advocate for stricter regulations to protect against its negative impacts. Social media emerged as the most detrimental influence on teenagers' mental health.
