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More than 60 members of the Labour Party have sent a joint letter to the Prime Minister, calling on him to support a proposed ban on social media access for children under 16, ahead of a parliamentary vote in the the upper chamber this week.

Widespread Support Emerges

The signatories, comprising select committee chairs, past shadow ministers and representatives from the entire Labour spectrum, are aiming to increase the pressure on the prime minister. This follows growing calls for the UK to follow the lead of Australia, which enacted a similar ban recently.

Although Starmer has stated he is open to the idea, legislators within the House of Lords are seeking to accelerate the process through an proposed change to the current schools bill. This amendment would force the enactment of a ban within a year of the act receiving royal assent.

“Across our constituencies, we encounter the same concerns: children are stressed and sad, and struggling to concentrate on learning. They are lacking the interpersonal skills needed to flourish.”

International Action

The communication, spearheaded by Labour MP Fred Thomas, adds that “Internationally, governments are recognising the severity of this problem and taking action.” It highlights existing or pending legislation in nations like Denmark, France, Norway, New Zealand and Greece.

“We believe the onus must be shifted to technology platforms, not parents, to block access by minors,” the MPs state. “We would favour a system similar to Australia’s that obligates companies to take concrete measures to uphold age limits.”

Practical Hurdles

This show of strength within the lower house places further focus on the Prime Minister. Although he has in the past shown scepticism about the effectiveness of a ban, he recently stated to MPs he was theoretically open to the concept.

Yet, recently, government figures have emphasised worries that a ban could force children toward the dark web. They argue on the need to assess further information from the Australian policy before deciding on a UK version.

“Theoretically, Keir is supportive of a ban. We can all see the dangers and are concerned about what is happening to the mental health of the young,” commented an insider. “But there are still big obstacles to overcome with putting it into practice. We need to move cautiously and make sure we implement it correctly.”

Lords Showdown

The Prime Minister's approach will face a direct test this week when members of the upper house vote on the proposed change by Conservative peer John Nash. This amendment to the legislation proposes enacting an minimum age within 12 months the law is passed.

Although the Labour leadership has not stated its official position on the amendment, several Labour peers are anticipated to support it regardless of any guidance from party managers.

Among them is ex-parliamentarian Luciana Berger, who has supported Lord Nash's amendment. She stated: “The proposal for increasing the social media age limit enjoys huge support – nationally and within the Labour party. Social media is profoundly hurting children and we must take immediate action to protect them.”