Legal Storm Hits Government Over Social Media Privacy Blunder
The Government’s bid to ban under-16s from social media is in hot water — and now faces a serious legal fight. Two dads have launched a legal challenge, blasting the consultation for forcing parents and kids to hand over private data to the same tech giants under scrutiny.
Harry Amies and Pete Montgomery, backed by London law firm Conrathe Gardner LLP, have fired off a sharp pre-action letter to ministers. They warn a High Court judicial review will be underway within 14 days unless the Government changes course — slamming the flawed consultation process.
Tech Giants Scoop Up Private Data During ‘Protect Kids Online’ Drive
The controversial consultation, “Growing Up in an Online World,” led by Liz Kendall’s Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, asks the public if under-16s should be banned from social media.
But Amies, a campaigner for online child protection, says the process is backfiring:
“This consultation ironically forces parents and children to hand over personal info to the very tech firms we’re trying to hold to account.”
Campaigners Demand Transparency or Face Court Showdown
- Full disclosure of all ministerial chats with polling firm Savanta about privacy policies
- Official assurances that no personal data will be passed to third parties
- Failure to comply means a High Court judicial review will be launched within two weeks
Social Media Curfew Fight Rages On
The wider debate over how to shield kids online is raging in Parliament. Ministers favour flexible tools like time limits, curfews, and disabling addictive features rather than a full ban.
Experts warn it’s not that simple. Age checks could mean ID or biometrics, while savvy teens might dodge bans using VPNs. It’s also unclear which platforms will be targeted — Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, messaging apps, gaming, or AI chatbots?
The consultation closes on 26 May, with a government ruling on tougher social media rules expected later this year.
