Protecting the next generation online | Burnley MP Oliver Ryan column
Before I begin, I want to briefly acknowledge the events that have taken place over the past week, particularly over the weekend here in Burnley. I've already published a statement and while investigations are ongoing it would be inappropriate to comment any further as a public figure.
But at times like these, I’m reminded of the eternal words of Jo Cox, who was murdered in cold blood 10 years ago this week:
"We are far more united and have far more in common than that which divides us"
Too often, we see people trying to divide communities for political gain. We see anger amplified online, disagreements turned into abuse, and social media platforms rewarding the loudest and most extreme voices.
What concerns me most is the impact this is having on young people.
When I was growing up, social media was still finding its feet. The biggest stress was deciding who made it into your top eight friends on Bebo. Today's young people face something entirely different.
They're being exposed to algorithms designed to keep them online for as long as possible. From eating disorder content and dangerous online trends to explicit material, misogyny and extremist views; online spaces simply weren't designed with their wellbeing in mind.
That's why I support the proposed ban on social media for under-16s.
I know it's a controversial proposal, and social media can absolutely be a force for good. We see it every day in Burnley, whether it's getting more volunteers for the Padiham Litter Pickers, or fundraising for Pendleside Hospice.
But we must be honest about the harm being done.
The evidence gathered through the Government's consultation and National Conversation was clear: over 80% of parents believe the risks of social media outweigh the benefits, and 90% back age restrictions for under 16s.
That said, if we're asking young people to spend less time online, we need to acknowledge that for too long, youth services and youth centres have been hollowed out.
That's why I've worked with the Town’s Board to secure £20million in funding for a youth zone right here in Burnley. We need places where young people can come together, make friends and access support when they need it. Better yet, across the board nationally, young people’s access to sport, arts, and youth provision is being backed by over £500 million over the next three years.
This is also where there is a clear political choice. Labour is prepared to strengthen protections for young people online and take on the platforms that profit from harmful content. Reform UK, meanwhile, wants to repeal the Online Safety Act with no credible alternative to protect children online. Some of their leading figures have even described Andrew Tate as an important voice for young men.
I simply don't believe that's the right direction for our country. At a time when parents are worried about harmful content, online bullying and the impact social media is having on young people's mental health, weakening protections would be a huge step backwards.
Future generations will look back on this moment in the same way we now look back on other major public health interventions. Not as an overreaction, but as a necessary step to protect young people from harm.
Because if we're serious about giving our children the best possible future, we cannot ignore the risks they face online today.
As always if you need anything you can send an email over to me at [email protected] or attend a drop in at my office with a caseworker between 10am and 2pm from Monday to Thursday.