Restricting under-16s' social media use supported

The idea of restricting phone and social media usage for under-16s has been supported - in principle - by politicians.

A ministerial group has been established in Jersey to oversee the island's ongoing response to online safety to make sure it adapted to "emerging risks" affecting children and young people.

The government said it recognised public concerns on smartphone and social media use and had asked the Law Commission to identify gaps in legislation and bring forward recommended changes.

Chief minister Lyndon Farnham said protecting children and young people from online harm was a responsibility the government took "extremely seriously".

"While important work is already under way across government, we know that the digital landscape changes quickly and our response must be able to change just as fast," Farnham said.

The government said the group would bring ministers from across relevant departments together to enable "joined-up decisions".

It added ministers had already met with local telecommunications providers to help them understand the steps they were taking to help parents reduce the risk for children.

The government said it would continue to engage closely with industry, schools, parents and safeguarding organisations.

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