Safer Phones Bill Seeks School Smartphone Ban

The Safer Phones Bill, introduced by Labour MP Josh MacAlister, aims to ban mobile phones in schools in England and raise the age of 'internet adulthood' from 13 to 16. The bill seeks to address concerns over the impact of smartphones and social media on children's mental health and behavior, including issues like 'doomscrolling' and exposure to addictive apps. While some schools in England already have restrictions on phone use, the proposed legislation would make it a legal requirement. The bill has garnered political support across parties and from child protection experts, though it faces challenges in becoming law without government backing. A Pew Research Center survey in the US shows a similar debate, with a majority supporting classroom bans to reduce distractions, though fewer advocate for an all-day ban due to concerns about contactability in emergencies. Critics of the bill argue that smartphones can aid in child development and socialization.