Kemi Badenoch Calls for Social Media Ban for Under-16s If Conservatives Win Election
# Kemi Badenoch Proposes Social Media Ban for Under-16s
Kemi Badenoch, the Minister for Equalities, has announced that if the Conservatives win the next election, they will implement a ban on social media usage for individuals under the age of 16. This significant policy shift aims to safeguard children from the potential harms associated with social media platforms.
During a discussion on the issue, Badenoch pointed out that many social media sites are "designed to be addictive." She emphasized the necessity of protecting young users, asserting that the government should intervene in social media's influence on minors. Her proposed age restrictions would provide a clear framework to regulate access for children.
Badenoch further articulated the Conservatives' commitment to parental support, stating, "What we want to see is common sense – protection for children and freedom for adults. We want to give parents some understanding that the Government understands what they're going through. So we want to bring in age limits." This statement highlights the party's intention to balance child safety with adult freedoms in the digital landscape.
The proposed ban aligns with ongoing concerns about the mental health implications for young people interacting with social media. The government aims to address these issues head-on, with an emphasis on preventative measures to foster a safer online environment for children.