Havant MP Alan Mak has criticised the Labour Government for allegedly failing to safeguard children online, claiming legislative delays are exposing young people to unnecessary risks.
Speaking in his capacity as Shadow Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, Mr Mak addressed Parliament, stating: “Every Government should prioritise protecting children online, which is precisely why the Conservatives enacted the Online Safety Bill, providing this administration with comprehensive powers to take action.”
Mr Mak directed criticism at Feryal Clark, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State at the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, questioning her parliamentary response regarding slow implementation under Labour leadership.
“When questioned in Parliament about Labour’s sluggish implementation, the Minister claimed it must be ‘as proofed against judicial review as possible’,” Mr Mak said.
“Why does she appear more focused on protecting herself and the Government rather than safeguarding children?”
The Havant MP referenced Ian Russell, who established the Molly Rose Foundation following his daughter’s death, noting Russell’s assertion that Britain is now “going backwards” regarding children’s online protection.
- Portsmouth MP Backs Industrial Strategy for Local Business Growth
- Labour Delivers for Armed Forces in First 11 Months, Says Portsmouth MP
“The Conservatives passed the Online Safety Act; Labour is the party failing our children,” Mr Mak declared.
“The Government displays timidity when boldness is required. Their priorities are misplaced, with legal caution overriding children’s safety. The Conservatives will continue pressing Labour to improve.”
Previously, Mr Mak had urged the Labour Government to consider raising the digital access age for social media platforms to 16 years old.
He had proposed an amendment to the Data Bill requiring the Government to examine increasing the current age limit from 13, citing evidence about social media’s impact on children’s educational, social and emotional development.
The Labour Government rejected this amendment through a parliamentary vote.
