The initiative to ban smartphones in schools, led by Labour MP Josh MacAlister for Whitehaven and Workington, has seen significant modifications as he seeks government backing for a revised approach. MacAlister, speaking to BBC News, admitted to “watering down” his proposals to focus on areas that might garner government support, stating he aims to create “practical measures” that lead to tangible actions in this issue.

Originally, MacAlister's bill, introduced in October 2023, aimed to enforce a complete ban on smartphones in educational institutions and to prohibit addictive social media algorithms. However, due to a lack of governmental interest in such restrictions, these proposals have been abandoned. Instead, the latest iteration of the bill, which is set for its second reading in the House of Commons on Friday, proposes further research into the impacts of smartphones and social media on children, as well as the development of guidance for parents regarding their children’s smartphone usage.

In its original form, the legislation suggested several stringent measures, including the establishment of mobile-free zones in all schools, a rise in the age at which companies could obtain data consent from children—from 13 to 16 years old—and enhanced regulatory powers for Ofcom to prevent children from accessing platforms designed to be addictive. Most of these proposals have now been dropped.

The revised bill instead focuses on:

  1. Issuing guidance from chief medical officers on children’s smartphone and social media use within a year.
  2. Tasking the education secretary with creating a research plan to study the impact of social media on children over the same period.
  3. An assessment from the government within one year regarding the potential increase of the digital age of consent from 13 to 16.

MacAlister expressed optimism about the bill's revised direction, believing it can lead to significant progress in addressing these concerns about mobile device use among young people. The conversation around smartphone restrictions has gained traction recently, with several educational institutions re-evaluating their policies on mobile phones and parent groups advocating for a delay in smartphone availability for children. However, some argue that smartphones can contribute positively to child development by facilitating social interactions, and there is insufficient evidence to support a blanket ban on devices in schools.

Overall, this development in the legislative process highlights the ongoing debate around children, technology, and education in the UK.

Source: Noah Wire Services