Question to the Department for Science, Innovation & Technology:

To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, with reference to the press notice entitled New online safety priorities for Ofcom and launch of study into effects of social media on children, published on 20 November 2024, what progress has been made on research into the impact of social media use on children.

The department is developing the evidence base around children’s online safety, including social media use, to continually inform our policy response.

As part of this, DSIT commissioned a feasibility study into research on the impact of smartphones and social media on children. This six-month study considered methods to gather causal evidence of any impact and reviewed existing research. It was led by expert researchers from UK universities. We will publish the feasibility study report in due course.

We are considering next steps, based on the study’s findings. They will inform any future research involving young people, parents and carers.