Social media ban for under 16s supported by Jack Abbott

The government announced on Monday that they are beginning consultations to understand how to protect children online which includes introducing a social media ban for under 16s.

This follows Westbourne Academy introducing lockable phone pouches in a move to curb poor student behaviour at the school.

Ipswich MP Jack Abbott has backed government proposals (Image: Contributed)

A petition to ban under 16s from social media has gained 75,000 signatures prompting a response from the government.

It stated: "The government is launching a consultation and a national conversation to gather views and drive action to keep children safe online, including seeking views on a social media ban for children."

Ipswich MP Jack Abbott has now stated that he supports the government's move to bring in measures to better protect children online.

He said: "Online safety for children is something I care deeply about. I am pleased our Government is delivering measures to protect children and young people online, building on the clear and concrete protections already set out in the Online Safety Act.

READ MORE: Suffolk parents urge MPs to raise social media age to 16

"These steps filter harmful content from children’s feeds, hold firms to account over age checks, and back headteachers with the message that mobile phones have no place in schools.

“Looking ahead, our Government is consulting on further measures, including a social media ban for children, reviewing the digital age of consent, and tackling features that drive compulsive use and ‘infinite scrolling’.

"Technology should enrich children’s lives, not harm them, and I am committed to making sure it does.”

Westbourne Academy principal Martin Higgon introduced lockable phone pouches at his school (Image: Contributed)

Westbourne Academy have introduced new lockable pouches to control student's mobile phone use at school - a move they say students have been very receptive to.

Principal Martin Higgon said: "Students have embraced this new strategy and the impact within the academy is clear."

In November, Australia took the ground-breaking decision to implement a social media ban for under 16s.

The ban meant they were prevented from using major social media services including Tiktok, X, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Snapchat and Threads.