John Swinney: UK should consider banning social media for under 16s

Scotland's First Minister has said the UK should consider following Australia's lead in banning social media for children under 16.

John Swinney told Planet Rock there is a 'strong argument' for the measure as he believes many young people are being caught up in a 'social media storm'.

Australia's rules are the strictest in the world - but will not take effect for another year.

Tech companies could be fined up to $50m ( £25.7m) if they don't comply with the legislation, which was passed to protect young people from the "harms" of social media.

But critics say questions remain about how the ban will work, as well as its impact on privacy and social connection.

Call for stronger steps

Mr Swinney said: "I've called for much stronger steps to be taken to regulate the activities of social media giants.

"I think young people are being caught up in a social media storm which can have a significant effect on their wellbeing.

"There are many benefits of social media, but there are also downsides.

"We've got to make sure children and young people are protected in this social media age.

"Part of the dialogue we're having with the United Kingdom Government is about how we can take the steps to better protect children and young people from the downsides of social media, whilst enabling them to experience the benefits and strengths of social media."

'Strong argument for it'

When asked if those steps could include a social media ban for under 16s, Mr Swinney said he would 'certainly consider it'.

He added: "I think there's a strong argument for it and I know Australia's gone down that direction.

"It's one of the issues I think we should look at it, because I think there is a need to make sure the appropriate protection is in place, and we must be assured that's the case."

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