Official records and announcements from the UK Parliament

Josh MacAlister Introduces Safer Phones Bill to Ban Smartphones in Schools

Oct 14, 2024, 11:07 PM

A new bill, the Safer Phones Bill, is being introduced by Labour MP Josh MacAlister to address the negative impacts of smartphone usage among children. The bill aims to ban smartphones in schools and restrict children under 16 from accessing social media without parental consent. This initiative is supported by various education experts, unions, and business leaders who warn that excessive screen time is harming children's mental health and educational attainment. Prince Harry has also voiced concerns, stating that smartphones are 'stealing young people's childhood.' Recent research shows that a significant majority of U.S. adults support banning cellphones during school hours, with 68% in favor of restrictions during class. The bill seeks to mitigate harms from addictive apps, algorithms, and online predators, emphasizing the need for urgent action to protect young people. Children reportedly spend 21 hours a week on smartphones, and the Stop the Scroll Act is another measure aimed at addressing this issue. The bill has gained bipartisan consensus.