Conservatives Push for Mobile Phone Ban in Schools Ahead of Commons Vote
The Tory Party seeks to amend Labour's Children's Wellbeing and Schools Bill to mandate a classroom phone ban, citing disruptions and safeguarding concerns.
- The Conservative Party is calling for a nationwide ban on mobile phones in schools, proposing an amendment to Labour's Children's Wellbeing and Schools Bill.
- Shadow Education Secretary Laura Trott argues that existing non-statutory guidance has failed and that a legal mandate is necessary to curb classroom disruptions and improve student safety.
- Labour, which holds a significant majority in Parliament, opposes the amendment but supports schools enforcing existing guidance to restrict phone use.
- Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson has expressed support for schools removing phones but maintains that headteachers should retain discretion rather than enforcing a blanket ban.
- The Conservative proposal has sparked public engagement efforts, including a petition and roundtable discussions, but is unlikely to pass due to Labour's parliamentary dominance.
The Independent 
The Times 