CLASS ACTION

Youngsters are being exposed to violence, pornography and grooming

- BY RUTH SUTER

A GROUP of parents have met Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth to call for a complete ban on smartphones in Scots schools.

The coalition of campaigners from Smartphone Free Childhood asked Gilruth to demand the SNP government update its position on allowing the devices into early education settings.

They argue a ban is essential to protect pupils.

Parents believe kids are being exposed to violence, pornography and grooming in attacks which then go viral. They're also being exposed to violent pornography and they're being groomed by paedophiles.

"Parents, including myself, are afraid to send their children to school because of such clear and present risks. We're having to choose between our children's safety or their education.

Smartphone Free Childhood's Sam Rice, of West Kilbride, Ayrshire, said: "Smartphones are becoming the cause of serious safeguarding harm.