Labour MPs anticipate ‘politically inept’ U-turn on social media ban

The government is under mounting pressure to reverse its position on banning social media for under-16s, with Labour MPs warning it risks a politically damaging showdown in Parliament if it does not act.

Dozens of Labour backbenchers are urging ministers to back an Australia-style ban, with some describing an expected change of course as a “politically inept” U-turn forced by pressure from both their own party and the Conservatives.

Peers have tabled an amendment to the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill that would require social media companies to use “highly effective age-assurance measures” to prevent under-16s from accessing their platforms. The amendment is due to be voted on in the House of Lords on Wednesday during the bill’s report stage and has cross-party support, including from former Labour MP Luciana Berger and ex-Conservative education minister Lord John Nash.

If passed, the amendment would return to the Commons, where Labour MPs say it would be extremely difficult for the government to oppose. One MP told Sky News there was “no way” ministers could successfully whip against it, claiming a majority of the Parliamentary Labour Party supports a ban and warning Downing Street would want to avoid another rebellion similar to past welfare votes.

Although the amendment was introduced before Christmas, Conservative insiders believe it could now be used to force Sir Keir Starmer into another policy shift, after the party pledged last week to ban social media for under-16s.

While some Labour MPs want the government to table its own amendment promising consultation on a ban, others say they are “sick of consultations” and want immediate action.

Calls for a ban have been growing across the party, with figures such as Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham also backing the idea.

Fred Thomas, the Labour MP for Plymouth Moor View, said MPs across the political spectrum recognise the harm social media is causing young people.

“Children are spending sleepless nights glued to addictive platforms that feed them harmful content,” he said. “The explosion in mental illness among young people is correlated with excessive social media use, and it’s time for action.”

Jess Asato, the MP for Lowestoft, said there is strong evidence that social media causes both mental and physical harm to children and can act as a gateway for sexual abuse and exploitation.

“We should take the precautionary principle and let kids be kids,” she said.

York Outer MP Luke Charters added that stories of grooming, bullying, exploitation and extortion online show why action is needed now to protect children and give them a safe, healthy childhood.

The government has so far resisted backing a ban, saying it wants to see how Australia’s under-16 social media ban works in practice. Australia became the first country to enforce such a ban in December.

However, there are signs the government’s stance may be softening. On Thursday, the prime minister said “all options are on the table,” while Health Secretary Wes Streeting said there is a “strong case for action” and welcomed the growing debate.

Mr Streeting acknowledged social media can help young people connect but warned of the effects of “doomscrolling” on children’s cognitive and brain development. He said the discussion should involve not just politicians, but parents and young people too.

Asked whether he would support the Lords amendment if it returns to the Commons, he said the decision rests with the prime minister and education secretary, but added: “I’m really glad we’re having this debate.”