Why do my children need phones, asks Hancock as he backs digital campaign
MATT HANCOCK has disclosed that he bans his children from social media because he worries it will “expose them to risks”.
The revelation came as the Culture Secretary backed new legislation to hold digital companies to account.
He also said parents should not let their children use mobile phones in their bedrooms overnight.
Mr Hancock, who has an 11-year-old daughter and sons aged nine and four, said they “don’t have access to the devices. They don’t have phones. Why do they need phones? They’re children”.
“I allow my children to do their homework online, but I don’t let them on to social media,” he said. He said he was “very worried” about them eventually using the platforms, and says he wanted issues fixed before they start.
“Keeping children safe online is a priority for the Government and The Daily Telegraph is right to help shine a spotlight on this important issue with its campaign,” Mr Hancock said. “Everyone has a role to play – tech companies, citizens, parents and government – and we have been clear that we will be bringing in new laws in this area.”
He is working on a White Paper on the issue, after accusing social media giants of failing to police themselves. His department expects it to be published later this year, before bringing in legislation next year. “Companies that provide services to millions of UK citizens have a duty of care towards the public on their platforms. As a parent of three young children, I am very much aware that, while bringing many benefits and opportunities, digital technology can also expose them to risks. Parents must have confidence that they can keep their children safe from harm.
“We want them to adhere to strong standards for online safety by signing up to our code of practice.”
Mr Hancock will work with organisations including the NSPCC to “ensure the UK is the safest place in the world for children to be online”.
Meanwhile, Jacob Rees-mogg, the Tory backbencher, said he limits his children’s use of an ipad each day.
“My eight-year-old and about-to-be six-year-old, the first thing they say to me in the mornings in Somerset is ‘can I have a go on the ipad?’
“I am trying to train them to say ‘good morning’ first and I give them half an hour – then an alarm goes off and they stop,” he told LBC radio.