Political Divide Deepens Over Mobile Phone Bans in English Schools

Labour defends focus on harmful online content as Ofsted and Conservatives push for stricter school phone policies.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer reaffirmed Labour's opposition to mandatory school phone bans, emphasizing that most schools already enforce such policies.
Ofsted chief Sir Martyn Oliver voiced strong support for headteachers banning phones, citing benefits like improved behavior and reduced classroom disruption.
Kemi Badenoch criticized Labour for rejecting a Conservative amendment to enforce mandatory bans, arguing that phones disrupt a significant number of GCSE classes daily.
Labour maintains its priority on regulating harmful online content accessible to children, with Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson exploring better monitoring of smartphone use in schools.
The debate underscores broader political and societal concerns about the role of technology in children's education, mental health, and safety.