Northampton parents support MP's calls for social media ban for under 16's

A Northampton dad and children's tennis coach, Simon Gallo, said he is favour of recent calls from Labour and Conservative MPs urging ministers to back an Australia-style social media ban on under-16s. He suggested that 'healthier past times' are needed for children' to replace screentime.

Gallo, who has an eight-year-old, said he would welcome a government to ban children under 16 from using social media, and even suggested that the age should be increased to 18. He said:

''Personally, my child will never go on social media while they're living in my house and if that is a harsh point of view....that's fine.

''You don't look like a bad parent trying to make your child eat vegetables, so we shouldn't really be discouraging parents to ban social media and limit screen time.'' He added.

The UK government have been reported to be 'hesitant' about supporting a full ban, but is now facing 'mounting pressure' from across Parliament.

As a sports enthusiast, Gallo expressed the importance of swapping screen-time for physical exercise and said the ''dopamine'' children get from scrolling on social media should be replaced by the challenge and competition that comes with playing a sport. He said:

''Being on a screen...scrolling through YouTube...is like fast food – it gives a quick burst of energy and it solves a problem.

''Children need to move, they need to exercise. Whether it's dance or art, there's still a form of competition that creates nerves and anticipation...to get a dopamine fix out of that is so much more beneficial for children's minds and bodies.''

Cali Beck, who is a local mother, said she is also in support of the proposed ban: ''I do agree with the ban, however, I would like to see an option where parents can review and approve content, should it be applicable for school projects for example.''

Members of the House of Lords are expected to vote on a cross-party amendment to the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill on Wednesday 21st January.

A Gov.uk petition has been set up which has seen thousands of signatures in favour of a UK under-16 social media ban.

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