Children might be banned from utilizing social media, Tory minister hints
A complete ban on kids utilizing social media might be pushed ahead subsequent yr, a minister urged.
Rishi Sunak is alleged to be weighing up the sweeping transfer, which might have an effect on under-16s. It might see a complete ban on kids utilizing websites like TikTok and Instagram, or limits on their entry.
Science Minister Andrew Griffith did not pour water on experiences of the transfer, hinting {that a} session might be launched within the coming months. Asked whether or not the Government is contemplating banning kids from social media, he informed Sky News: “The speculation is about a potential consultation in the new year.”
Pressed on whether or not this was taking place he stated: “It’s about a potential consultation, I don’t think any of us know it’s happening and I wouldn’t comment on future consultations at this time.”
He continued that the Online Safety Act had already improved safety for children on-line, however refused to rule out going additional. Mr Griffith stated: “Is there more that can be done? Potentially. Every parent out there recognises that as you seek to protect your child making sure that the Government gives you all the tools and has got your back on those sort of topics is something that is important to parents.”
And he continued: “We’ve already taken action and it’s right that we continue to look at that, I don’t think we’re ever going to say that that job is done.”
It comes after Government insiders informed Bloomberg {that a} whole ban for under-16s is into account. But they added that the transfer will not be included in future consultations.
It comes after the National Crime Agency (NCA) warned mother and father about letting kids use Facebook. It follows Meta’s determination to herald encrypted messages. This week Schools Minister Damian Hinds referred to as on the corporate to “rethink” its determination.
He informed Times Radio: “It’s not about protecting people’s privacy. This is really a question about ability to intercept and to ultimately investigate, bring to justice people who are engaging in child abuse.”
Meanwhile Policing Minister Chris Philp stated it will “prevent thousands of paedophiles from being arrested”. The PM’s deputy official spokeswoman said she wouldn’t comment on leaks, but added: “We are looking broadly at this issue of keeping children safe online.”
