Hugh Grant Leads Charge In Uk Social Media And Press Reforms

Hugh Grant Spearheads Social Media Ban for Under-16s

In a significant legislative push, the UK's House of Lords has backed a ban on social media use for children under 16, scoring a win for activists like Hugh Grant. The vote, with a 261 to 150 outcome, sends a strong signal to Members of Parliament in the Commons to consider this measure seriously. The move reflects growing concerns over the impact of social media on young minds, with critics noting the platforms' harmful influence.

Lord Nash, a Conservative former schools minister, highlighted the negative effects of extensive social media use on children's health and academic performance. Despite the government's announcement of a three-month consultation to weigh the pros and cons, critics like Lord Nash view it as a delay tactic, calling it ‘unnecessary and misconceived.’ The push for action comes from a coalition that includes parents, campaigners, and high-profile figures like Grant, who see the urgent need for protective measures.

“A consultation is the playground of the tech lobbyist and inaction is the most powerful tool in politics.”

These developments come amid emotional testimonies from those like Ellen Roome, whose personal tragedy underscores the need for legislative change. The unanimous call from these voices is clear: immediate action is required to safeguard children from online dangers.

Press Reform: Elizabeth Hurley's Testimony Shines Light on Privacy Violations

Hugh Grant's advocacy doesn't stop at social media. His longstanding commitment to press reform is evident in Elizabeth Hurley's emotional testimony in a high-profile privacy lawsuit. Hurley, alongside six other claimants including Prince Harry, is suing Associated Newspapers over alleged privacy intrusions dating back decades.

During her testimony, Hurley recounted learning about phone hacking from Grant in 2015. Her subsequent lawsuit against Mirror Group Newspapers awarded her £350,000, which she donated to 'Hacked Off,' further cementing Grant's involvement in press reform. Hurley's account describes the profound distress from alleged surveillance tactics like bugging, painting a picture of a systematic invasion of privacy.

Grant's own history with the media makes him a natural ally in these campaigns. His involvement with 'Hacked Off' highlights a broader mission to hold the press accountable and protect individual privacy rights, especially in an age where digital boundaries are often blurred. As the High Court proceedings continue, with testimonies from other notable figures, the debate on media ethics and privacy remains as pressing as ever.