Education Bill - After Clause 62 - Prohibition of smartphones during the school day

Moves to discuss Government motions that disagree with Lords amendments but propose alternatives. Acknowledges the importance of addressing online harms and suggests further measures might be taken in the future.

Intervenes to thank the Minister for her work on the matter, appreciated by many parents. Acknowledges the importance of looking ahead at further measures to tackle online harms.

Intervenes to declare an interest as a Select Committee member and discusses the need for young people to learn about dangers of social media, which should be incorporated into the school curriculum.

Intervenes to criticise the Government's approach as lacking urgency and direction. Suggests that Lords amendment offers a clear opportunity to limit social media use for those over 16 and tighten regulations on mobile phone usage in schools.

Intervenes to question the Minister about the lack of action, suggesting that the opportunity provided by Lords amendment should be utilised for stricter regulations.

Supports a statutory ban on smartphones in schools to address disruption and safeguarding issues. Argues that the problem exists despite previous government claims, citing evidence of phones disrupting GCSE classes daily. Supports the need for clear guidance prohibiting 'not seen, not heard' policies where children can still use their phones during school hours.

Highlights that a firm policy on phone usage is necessary to prevent peer pressure and ensure security. Mentions that schools in his constituency have strict policies which have been effective.

Questions the necessity of imposing the ban now, considering previous government's lack of action over 14 years. Suggests a need for evidence-based policy instead of immediate implementation.

Points out that Labour MPs have voted to listen to parents, young people and charities to learn from experiences in other countries like Australia and Greece.

Argues for a nuanced approach, citing joint letter by various organisations suggesting that while action is needed against online harms, a blanket ban has significant drawbacks. Suggests consulting nationally to get the policy right.

Questions the necessity of indefinite consultation and suggests that the motion tabled should be carried without further delays.

Welcomed the statutory ban on mobile phones in schools, though expressed concerns about chuntering and suggested a speaking limit to accommodate all Back Benchers. Encouraged other MPs to conclude their speeches.

Welcomed the statutory ban on mobile phones in schools, emphasising its importance for clarity. Highlighted concerns about exceptions in guidance, especially for children with special needs or disabilities. Questioned how these exceptions will be managed within a classroom environment.

Suggested Yondr pouches as a potential solution to balance the ban on mobile phones with the needs of children who need their devices for health reasons or other essential uses.

Agreed that social media platforms are causing harm and addiction, but noted that adults also suffer from these issues. Suggested broader solutions were needed.

Welcomed the ban on mobile phones in schools, noting its significance for improving focus and learning. Emphasised the need for clear guidance on reasonable adjustments for children with medical needs or SEND. Criticised tech companies for denying responsibility regarding harmful content and addictive design.

Asked to intervene, highlighting the importance of pouches like Yondr for children who need their phones for health reasons or other essential uses.

Speaks about a local tragedy of a young boy who was stabbed and brutally murdered after online bullying. Supports the Government's work on tackling social media harms, though acknowledges there are differing views on age restrictions. Welcomes the Government’s action to implement a ban on phones in schools as it protects children by giving clarity to schools on phone bans.

Concerned about proposals allowing regulators to limit growth of good schools or force them to shrink, arguing this goes against the principle that good schools should be able to grow. Criticises the Government for undermining progress made by the previous government in turning failing schools into academies.

Urges Ministers to reconsider stripping out sensible safeguards proposed by the House of Lords, such as clear protections for high-performing schools from having their admission numbers reduced unless necessary and proportionate.

Supports banning smartphones in schools due to understanding peer pressure among young people. Argues there is an opportunity to take action immediately rather than waiting, and suggests children can use brick phones for necessary communication.

Argues for a social media ban and strict mobile phone policy in schools, citing current ineffective measures, the need to act on child safety issues, and practical solutions such as plastic boxes for storage. Criticises inconsistencies in government policies regarding school uniform regulations.

Defends the current guidance allowing schools discretion on mobile phones and social media, highlights medical exemptions, insists that the consultation covers a broader range of issues, affirms decisive action is being taken, and clarifies strict enforcement of no phone access during school hours.