New UK bill could force social media firms to make content less addictive for under 16s

The safer phones bill could ban companies from applying algorithms for young ‘doomscrolling’ teens

Social media companies could be forced to exclude young teens from algorithms to make content less addictive for under-16s, under a new bill with heavyweight backing from Labour, Conservatives and child protection experts.

The safer phones bill, a private member’s bill from a Labour MP that has high priority in parliament, will be discussed by ministers this week.