UK MP Raises Alarm Over Smartphone Use in Schools, Calls for 5G Restrictions

Robin Walker, a UK Member of Parliament and chairman of the Education Select Committee, has expressed serious concerns about the widespread use of smartphones in schools and the potential health risks associated with 5G networks. Walker is urging the government to take action to address these issues and protect the mental health and wellbeing of young people.

Since 2010, there has been a significant increase in anxiety, depression, self-harm, and suicide among Generation Z children, which Walker believes is linked to excessive smartphone and social media use. According to a study cited by Walker, 97% of children now have mobile phones, and psychologist Jonathon Haidt has exposed how the "anxious generation" of Gen Z has "rewired" childhood, leading to an epidemic of mental illness.

The statistics are concerning: girls' anxiety and depression have doubled since 2010, self-harming in girls aged 10 to 14 has tripled, and completed suicide rates have increased significantly for both girls and boys. Walker suggests that the traditional play-based childhood has been replaced by a phone-based childhood, and the situation has only worsened after the COVID-19 restrictions.

Why this matters: The mental health crisis among young people, exacerbated by excessive smartphone use and potential 5G health risks, has far-reaching consequences for society. Addressing these issues is vital for the wellbeing of future generations and requires a coordinated effort from policymakers, educators, and parents.

In addition to the mental health concerns, Walker also raises the issue of potential health risks associated with the deployment of 5G networks near schools and residential areas. He argues that the radiation from smartphones and 5G networks can have negative impacts on children's development and calls for the government to take a precautionary approach.

Walker is urging the government to provide better guidelines to stop the use of mobile phones in schools and restrict the deployment of 5G near schools and residential areas. He believes that mass surveillance may not be necessary in local areas and that protecting children's health should be a top priority.

The concerns raised by Walker are part of a growing debate about the impact of technology on young people's mental health and development. While some experts argue that banning or restricting access to social media would be an ineffective solution, others point to studies showing the benefits of limiting smartphone use in schools.

For example, a study by the Norwegian Institute of Public Health found that banning smartphones in schools led to a significant decrease in doctor visits among girls for psychological symptoms, reduced bullying, and improved academic performance, particularly for girls from low socioeconomic backgrounds.

As the debate continues, it is clear that finding a balance between the benefits and risks of technology in education and society will be a critical challenge for policymakers and educators in the years to come. Walker's call for action highlights the urgency of addressing these issues and the need for a comprehensive approach to protecting the health and wellbeing of young people in the digital age.

Key Takeaways

• UK MP Walker expresses concerns over smartphone use and 5G health risks in schools.
• Gen Z children face mental health crisis linked to excessive smartphone and social media use.
• Banning smartphones in schools shown to decrease psychological symptoms, bullying, and improve academics.
• Walker urges government to restrict smartphone use in schools and 5G deployment near schools/homes.
• Balancing technology's benefits and risks in education is a critical challenge for policymakers.