On February 3, 2026, the House of Lords passed a significant amendment to the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill, mandating that all schools in England implement a ban on smartphones during school hours. The vote concluded with a majority of 261 to 150, reflecting widespread support for the measure among Lords concerned about the impact of mobile technology on students. Key Provisions of the Bill

Within 12 months of the bill's enactment, schools will be required to develop policies that prohibit the use and possession of smartphones during the school day. The bill allows for certain exemptions, such as medical devices and potential accommodations for sixth-form students.

Baroness Barran, a key advocate of the amendment, emphasized the necessity of this legislation. "We must create an environment conducive to learning, free from distractions that smartphones can introduce," she stated.

The legislation also aims to empower school leaders to devise tailored policies that cater to their unique student populations. Rationale Behind the Ban

Supporters of the bill highlight the escalating concerns regarding how excessive smartphone use affects children's mental health and academic performance. Reports have indicated increased incidents of anxiety, distractions, and reduced engagement in classroom activities linked to mobile phone usage.

John Nash, a Conservative member and former education minister, expressed alarm over the addiction trends among children, stressing the urgent need for protective measures. "We face nothing short of a societal catastrophe if we allow our children to remain connected to these devices in a learning environment," he remarked. Opposition and Concerns

While the bill enjoys substantial backing, some members voiced concerns about potential overreach. Baroness Claire Fox, a non-affiliated peer, cautioned against scapegoating smartphones for broader societal issues, arguing that placing restrictions may not address the root causes of student disengagement or mental health problems. Next Steps

The bill will now progress to the House of Commons, where MPs will debate its contents. If approved, schools will face new legal obligations, fundamentally changing the landscape of mobile phone policies in educational institutions across England.

This legislative move reflects a growing trend in various countries toward regulating mobile phone use in schools, echoing similar initiatives recently seen in France and the Netherlands. As the debate continues, the UK's approach will likely be watched closely by other nations considering similar measures.