Kendall outlines plans on social media for under 16s

Overnight curfews and breaks to prevent “doomscrolling” will form part of the Government’s consultation on social media for children, which will also consider an Australian-style ban for under-16s.

- PRESS ASSOCIATION REPORTERS

Technology Secretary Liz Kendall said she is “determined” to give children the childhood they deserve, as she set out plans to consult on proposals to raise the digital age of consent and restrict potentially addictive app design features.

There have been growing calls for the Prime Minister to raise the minimum age for social media platforms, and No 10 has signalled it is open to the idea.

In the meantime, Ms Kendall said Ofsted will examine schools’ mobile phone policies and how effectively they are implemented. She also confirmed “evidence-based” guidance for parents on appropriate screen time for children aged 5-16 will be produced. Guidance for parents of under-fives is expected in April.