A Tory peer, Lord John Nash, calls for technology companies to restrict features on smartphones used by under-18s after 9pm. In comments reported by the Daily Mail, Nash argues that “addictive” design elements—such as infinite scrolls, streaks, and autoplay—can keep young people engaged late into the night and may affect their sleep.
The proposal is presented in the context of broader political debate about digital design and protections for children. The Daily Mail reports that Nash has previously prompted what it describes as a “tech U-turn” by Labour leader Keir Starmer, and the latest remarks again focus on placing limits on engagement mechanics outside normal hours.
The articles do not set out specific enforcement mechanisms, whether restrictions would be automated through app settings or device-level controls, or how compliance would be measured. They also do not report any immediate response from tech firms or government ministers to Nash’s call.
