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Rochdale MP backs campaign with TV star to push for tougher online safety rules for children

Wednesday, 25 March 2026 16:57

By David Murphy

Rochdale MP Paul Waugh has joined a national campaign alongside a television athlete to call for stronger protections for children using social media and smartphones.

Paul Waugh appeared in Parliament with Zack George, known as Steel from the television series Gladiators, to support the Smartphone Free Childhood campaign. The initiative is encouraging parents to take part in a government consultation on online safety for young people.

The consultation is seeking views from parents and children on whether new measures should be introduced, including a minimum age for social media use and restrictions on features such as autoplay and infinite scrolling.

During a speech in the House of Commons, Mr Waugh raised concerns about harmful online content and criticised a number of social media influencers, highlighting the impact such material can have on young people. He also referenced a recent documentary examining online subcultures linked to harmful attitudes.

Mr Waugh has signed a letter from MPs to Ofcom calling for specific protections for boys and young men who may be at risk of online harms and manipulation. The letter urges the regulator to develop a targeted approach similar to existing work focused on protecting girls and women.

The government is considering a range of options, including whether to introduce restrictions similar to those in Australia, where social media access for under 16s has been subject to tighter controls.

Mr Waugh said parents need support to manage children’s use of phones and online platforms. He listed concerns including exposure to harmful content such as self harm material, pornography and hate speech.

He also praised Zack George’s work encouraging young people to spend less time online and described him as a positive role model.

The consultation will remain open until 26 May, with responses expected to help shape future policy on online safety for children.

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