House of Commons · Bill Debate
27 April 2026 · 8 other contributors
Opened by Olivia Bailey Lab Bolsover
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
Olivia Bailey raised concerns about children and social media protection bill - amendments 38v to 38x, lords amendments 105c in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.
Key points
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.
Opened the debate
Moves an amendment insisting on the Commons disagreement with Lords amendments 38V-38X and proposes new amendments in lieu of those. The amendment seeks to impose stricter social media age restrictions for under-16s, which was not initially supported by the Government but has since been accepted with a shorter timeframe.
Explains that Lords Amendment 38X engages Commons financial privilege and introduces Government's new position on social media age restrictions. Acknowledges progress made but emphasises the need for swift action to protect children from online harms.
Highlights the victory of unity among opposition and campaigners in pushing for stricter social media age restrictions. Urges the Government to ensure action is swift despite some delay, emphasising the importance of protecting children from online harms.
Acknowledges the work done by Science, Innovation and Technology Ministers in consulting thoroughly with residents. Emphasises the need to get age restrictions right and notes public support for increased protection.
Calls for a clear time-bound commitment to action on online harms, criticising the initial three-year timeline proposed by the government as inadequate. Suggests that other countries are taking urgent action now and urges the government to move faster.
Welcomes the Government's Bill but calls for swift action, questioning the timeline of 21 months. Urges the Minister to give an assurance that the consultation will prioritise public health activists and bereaved parents rather than tech companies.
Supports raising the social media age limit to 16. Acknowledges that this is a child protection issue and praises the Government for making the right decision.
Thanked Members for their contributions, reiterated commitment to swift action and consultation on age or functionality restrictions for children under 16. Emphasised that measures will be imposed regardless of the outcome of consultations, including potential curfews in addition to other provisions. Stressed the need for transformational legislation to ensure safety and opportunity for every child.
Asked Minister to clarify whether Opposition had extracted a commitment from Government that social media for under-16s would be banned as a result of the amendment.