Banning social media for under-16s
The Government has announced a comprehensive ban on social media access for under-16-year-olds to protect children from online harms and excessive screen time, responding to the recent consultation in which nine in ten parents supported a ban.
The Prime Minister has additionally instructed tech firms that they must block children from taking explicit images on their phones.
I want to thank all the parents who voiced their concerns about children accessing social media, particularly those I heard from at the Smartphone Free Childhood event in Shoreham. I have listened to concerns from parents and teachers about the impact algorithms are having in driving addictive behaviours, interrupting sleep and learning.
Last week, I spoke in a debate reiterating my support for the Assisted Dying Bill, which will now return to Parliament due to the result of the Private Members’ Bill ballot.
I also attended UKIE’s Westminster Games Week events, showcasing the UK’s incredible video games industry. Many successful studios are based in Sussex!
In the constituency, I was glad to view the wonderful Capturing Old Shoreham exhibition at Marlipins Museum.
I also met with parents and carers of neurodiverse children to discuss the Government’s upcoming SEND reforms and what more support can be provided.
In Shoreham, it was great to join our local councillors at the Farmers’ Market, before watching a screening of a climate change film at the Church of the Good Shepherd.
To wrap up the week, I had a great time seeing Shoreham-by-Sea Cricket Club’s kids in action on a sunny Friday evening and then attending the annual awards presentation for Southwick Rangers on Sunday – getting wet sponges chucked at me to raise money for the club!