Conservatives force government U-turn to protect children in Southport and the Northern Parishes from online harms

The Conservatives have forced the government into a U-turn that will protect children across Southport and the Northern Parishes from the harms of social media. The Conservatives welcome the Prime Minister finally listening to the voices of brave bereaved parents, health professionals, campaigners, and children themselves. 

Three times Labour MPs voted against Conservative proposals to ban social media for under-16s, but yesterday Keir Starmer has U-turned and backed our plans.

Mike Prendergast of Southport Conservatives said:

“Despite the dither and delay, the Conservative team and I welcome the announcement of the government’s U-turn on a social media ban for under-16s.

“Labour tried to kick this issue into the long grass, and it is because of the hard work of campaigners that they have not been able to run away from these measures that will protect our children here in Southport and the Northern Parishes.”

“As a parent of two children, aged 12 and 10, I know how difficult it is for parents to protect their children from online harms and the quite addictive nature of many social media platforms.“

“Reform are not serious about protecting our children online either. They would reverse the changes announced today and repeal the Online Safety Act - they are not interested in standing up to Big Tech and protecting our children.”

“Only the Conservatives have the team and the plan to put the interests of our children first.”

Laura Trott MP, Shadow Education Secretary, said:

“It’s shameful that it’s taken the Prime Minister’s job to be on the line for the government to finally U-turn and ban social media for under-16s. 

“Three times Labour voted against a ban, failing to stand up to Big Tech and protect children from the extreme content they are exposed to every day.

“As Conservatives we did not give up, I kept fighting for the brave bereaved parents, health professionals, and campaigners who continued to make the case for change. This victory belongs to them. The Conservatives in opposition can make a difference and this change will finally help parents and protect childhood.”