Wes Streeting has drawn parallels between technology companies and the tobacco industry as demands escalate for a ban on social media for individuals under 16 years old.
The former Health Secretary implied that social media’s impact on children is akin to that of smoking and criticized tech firms for emulating tobacco companies in evading regulations.
The Government’s ongoing online safety review, closing tonight, is exploring measures such as a social media prohibition for under-16s similar to Australia’s model, setting app usage restrictions, and curbing addictive functionalities.
Streeting’s statements come following his resignation and announcement of intent to compete in any leadership race to succeed Keir Starmer. Despite the Prime Minister’s refusal to step down, Streeting is positioning himself in Labour’s shadow leadership race as a contender while Andy Burnham seeks to return to Parliament in a Makerfield by-election.
Asserting that social media should be regulated akin to tobacco due to its addictive and detrimental nature, Streeting emphasized the need to reclaim children’s innocence. He stressed that a ban for under-16s should mark the beginning of stricter measures, urging a shift in control from tech giants back to society.
His remarks align with concerns raised in a report by the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges, equating social media and smartphone usage to smoking and seatbelt safety in terms of health risks. The report highlighted a surge in radicalized youth due to exposure to distressing online content.
The Chair of the Labour Party urged the Government to capitalize on the current opportunity, emphasizing the need for careful consideration in safeguarding the future well-being of children through effective policy decisions.
Families impacted by online-related tragedies are scheduled to meet with Keir Starmer to advocate for the Government’s commitment to enforcing social media restrictions for under-16s. Campaigner Lauren Cowell, speaking on behalf of the families, urged the Prime Minister to acknowledge their plight and reassess age restrictions until tech giants can ensure safety.
Calls have emerged for the UK to follow Australia’s lead on social media restrictions, although doubts persist over its efficacy. The Government is anticipated to disclose its strategy post-consultation, having already obtained legal authority to swiftly implement regulatory changes when necessary.
