MSPS renew call for ban on mobiles in school

MSPS want the Scottish Parliament to look at bringing in a ban on the use of mobile phones in schools as the only way to tackle the problem of boys taking sexual pictures of women teachers and female pupils without their knowledge or consent.

The abuse involves female teachers and girls being photographed unwittingly by boys, who then share the images with each other.

If such cases come to court, an offender can expect 18 months in jail and 10 years on the sex offenders’ register.

According to a national newspaper, MSPS have said that a ban may be the only solution to the problem.

James Dornan, SNP MSP for Glasgow Cathcart, said: “We have to look at all options. Clearly this is extremely concerning and we have a duty of care to pupils and staff.

“If this can’t be dealt with then local authorities may have to consider the ultimate sanction of banning mobile phones in schools.”

Scottish Tory education spokeswoman Liz Smith has also backed stricter rules on phone use.

A Scottish Government spokesman said headteachers already had powers to restrict the use of mobile phones.

He said: “Any form of sexual harassment in the workplace, including our schools, is completely unacceptable.

“Employers have a duty to protect staff from all forms of abuse and we fully support police to take appropriate action to address any such incidents.”