UK Introduces Safer Telephones Bill for Minors

A new bill, the Safer Phones Bill, proposed by Labour MP Josh MacAlister, aims to protect children under 16 from addictive online content by banning social media companies from using personalized algorithms for this age group. The legislation, which has garnered support from both Labour and Conservative parties, seeks to raise the age of 'internet adulthood' from 13 to 16, requiring parental consent for under-16s to access platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Additionally, the bill would give Ofcom increased powers to regulate online content and potentially make schools mobile-free zones. Health Secretary Wes Street expressed that the bill is timely given the mental health impacts of smartphone addiction on children. While there is some resistance to a total ban on mobile phone sales to teenagers, discussions are ongoing regarding effective regulatory measures. The proposed legislation will be debated in Parliament this week and has significant backing from child welfare advocates and experts.