MPs Propose Total Smartphone Ban for Under-16s

A report from the House of Commons Education Committee recommends a total ban on smartphones for under-16s, citing the harmful impacts of screen time on children's mental and physical health.

The committee also calls for a statutory ban on mobile phones in schools, criticizing current non-statutory guidance from the Department for Education as insufficient.

The report highlights a 52% increase in children's screen time between 2020 and 2022, with a quarter of children reportedly using their devices addictively.

Committee chairman Robin Walker stresses the need for urgent action, while online safety campaigner Ian Russell argues that banning phones would be counterproductive and advocates for strengthening the Online Safety Act instead.