UK Minister, Peter Kyle, rules out social media ban for under-16s, instead focusing on new research into the harms of social media. The Safer Phones Bill proposes a mechanism for banning social media for minors, while the Online Safety Act will put more responsibility on tech companies to protect children online.
Background
Current Situation
Peter Kyle’s Stance
Peter Kyle, the technology secretary, has ordered new research into the harms of social media. He plans to “do what it takes to keep people, particularly children and people with vulnerabilities, safe online.” Kyle is also expected to call on Ofcom to report back to him on its progress with the Online Safety Act – new legislation being finalised by the regulator that will come into force in the spring.
Risks Associated with Social Media
The main risk Kyle is seeking to tackle is of deaths of children as a result of social media. He has met parents of children who have either committed suicide or the murder has been instigated via online activity, and he gets a lot of parents writing to him saying ‘just stop this kit getting into my kid’s hands’.
Quotes From Peter Kyle
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“I’m in touch with the government in Australia to see what, if it is, they’re basing it on [and] why they’re doing it.”
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“The main risk I was concerned to tackle was of deaths of children as a result of social media. I’ve met parents of children who have either committed suicide or the murder has been instigated via online activity.”
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“I get a lot of parents writing to me saying ‘just stop this kit getting into my kid’s hands’.”
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“If it was even 70% accurate within a year, that is keeping 70% of children safe from inappropriate content online.”
Research And Legislation
Mr Kyle has ordered new research into the harms of social media and plans to “do what it takes to keep people, particularly children and people with vulnerabilities, safe online.” The Safer Phones Bill, which will be debated in March, includes a mechanism for banning social media for under 16s. Mr Kyle is also expected to call on Ofcom to report back to him on its progress with the Online Safety Act – new legislation being finalised by the regulator that will come into force in the spring and will put more responsibility on tech companies to protect children online and remove illegal content.
Proposed Legislation
The Safer Phones Bill, proposed by Labour MP Josh MacAlister, includes a mechanism for banning social media for under 16s. This bill will be debated in March.
Online Safety Act
The Online Safety Act – new legislation being finalised by the regulator that will come into force in the spring – will put more responsibility on tech companies to protect children online and remove illegal content.
Reactions From Teenagers
Teenagers have urged Peter Kyle to rethink plans to follow Australia’s lead and restrict access to social media sites. They argue that a ban would reduce their social connections and limit their ability to communicate with friends.
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