Conservative and Labour Buckinghamshire MPs back social media ban for under 16s

The government plans to use the same model for a social media ban as Australia with some additional restrictions. Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the move would help give “kids their childhood back”.

Wycombe’s Labour MP Emma Reynolds said the ban will be warmly welcomed by parents across the town. “As a mother myself, I know how difficult it can be for parents to protect their children online,” Ms Reynolds said.

“That is why I was delighted that so many local residents took part in the consultation and made their voices heard. These reforms will help create a healthier environment for children, setting a new standard for future generations and advancing the Government’s commitment to giving every child the best start in life.”

Beaconsfield and South Bucks Villages Conservative MP Joy Morrissey said the news was welcomed after months of campaigning for the ban.

She said: “The Government has finally recognised the dangers social media can pose to young people. I have heard from many parents and teachers across Beaconsfield, Marlow and the South Bucks villages who have raised concerns about this issue, and they will welcome this move.

“While this is another Labour U-turn, I am pleased the Government has listened. We must do everything we can to protect our children and safeguard their future.”

Conservative Mid-Buckinghamshire MP Greg Smith said the announcement was a victory for campaigners. “The strength of feeling is clear,” he said “And Conservatives in the House of Commons pushed and voted for an under 16s social media ban multiple times when Labour were still sending their troops through the ’no’ lobby.

“Labour’s sudden conversion on this is testimony to everyone who has worked so hard and made so much noise in the interests of protecting children across the whole country.”

Laura Kyrke-Smith, Labour MP for Aylesbury, welcomed the announcement. She said: “As both a parent and a politician, I’m over the moon with today’s announcement.

“I’m really grateful to everyone in Aylesbury and the villages who has taken time to discuss this with me, especially the young people who have shared examples of harmful content that they’ve been exposed to, and told me about their health and addiction struggles.

“This is a huge step forward in keeping our children safe and healthy. I’d like to credit the courage of one local mum in particular, who shared the story of her son being groomed by an AI companion bot.

“We’ve worked together with Ministers since then, and I’m so thrilled that AI companion bots are included in the changes announced today.”