The British Parliament Rejects Ban on Social Media for Children .. Here are the Details
The United Kingdom announced that members of the British Parliament rejected a proposal aimed at banning the use of social media for children under the age of 16.
The proposal had received support from the House of Lords earlier this year, following increasing calls from activists including actor Hugh Grant, according to the British news agency (PA Media).
Supporters of the ban, inspired by the Australian model, pointed out that many parents find themselves in an "impossible situation" due to the digital harms their children may face online.
In contrast, other entities, including the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children, warned that the ban could push teenagers to unregulated corners of the internet, increasing risks to them.
Members voted by a majority of 307 to 173, a difference of 134 votes, against the proposed amendment to the Children and Schools Welfare Bill, presented by former Conservative minister John Nash.
Nash described the vote in the House of Commons as "extremely disappointing," affirming his intention to do everything possible to revive the amendment in the House of Lords.
This British move comes in the context of a global wave of similar legislation, as countries like Indonesia seek to ban social media for children under 16, while Poland plans to implement a ban for those under 15, and Egypt reveals outlines of a law banning social media platforms for children.
