The father of Molly Russell has cautioned Keir Starmer against hastily implementing a social media prohibition following recent surveys indicating that a majority of young people in Australia are still using online platforms despite age restrictions.
Ian Russell, whose 14-year-old daughter tragically ended her life in 2017 due to the negative impacts of social media, emphasized to the Prime Minister that the potential consequences of missteps in addressing online safety are too significant. He urged thorough consideration of evidence before taking action to enhance online safety in the UK.
Despite Australia’s ban on social media for individuals under 16 introduced in December, a recent poll revealed that three out of five (61%) Australian adolescents aged 12 to 15 still maintain access to one or more accounts on restricted platforms.
The survey findings indicated that major social media companies have managed to retain a significant portion of their underage users, with 53% of former TikTok users, 53% of YouTube users, and 52% of Instagram users continuing to access accounts on these platforms.
Conducted by the Molly Rose Foundation and YouthInsight, Australia’s largest online youth panel, the survey involved 1,050 children aged 12-15. The Molly Rose Foundation, established in memory of Molly, expressed concerns about the efficacy of Australia’s social media ban, warning that such measures may offer a false sense of security to parents. Instead, they advocate for the UK government to enact a new Online Safety Act as part of the King’s Speech.
Mr. Russell stressed the importance of evidence-based decision-making to position the UK as a global leader in online safety, emphasizing the need for robust laws that align with parental expectations.
Andy Burrows, Chief Executive of Molly Rose Foundation, echoed these sentiments, cautioning against replicating Australia’s social media ban in the UK. He highlighted the necessity for solutions that truly enhance online safety and children’s well-being, rather than offering a superficial sense of security that ultimately falls short.
The UK Government is presently exploring various options for safeguarding children’s social media usage, including measures to address addictive features and dangerous design elements, as well as the possibility of implementing nighttime restrictions. The consideration of a complete social media ban for those under 16 is part of the ongoing three-month consultation process.
A DSIT spokesperson emphasized the importance of making informed decisions based on sound technical considerations to ensure effective protection for children and parents. The consultation aims to explore a range of strategies, from digital curfews to potential social media bans, with a focus on holding platforms accountable and providing genuine safeguards for users.
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