Labour donor Dale Vince has taken a stand against potential government actions to restrict children’s access to social media. Vince criticized tech giants like Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg for what he views as their unrestricted influence over young people. Responding to parents’ concerns, the founder of Ecotricity, a green energy company, has introduced a mobile plan that offers unlimited calls and texts but excludes internet access.

Vince, a millionaire, emphasized the necessity of this traditional phone plan due to the harmful online content children are exposed to and called on government officials to take action. This move comes as pressure mounts on the government to implement a ban on social media access for individuals under 16.

In a separate development, more than 60 Labour MPs have urged Prime Minister Keir Starmer to follow Australia’s lead in enforcing a social media ban, with other countries also considering similar measures. Vince’s business, Ecotalk, has launched a new SIM-only mobile plan called Just Talk, which provides unlimited UK calls and texts starting at £4 per month, but does not include internet access.

Vince stated that the Just Talk tariff aims to address concerns about children’s unfettered exposure to online platforms and the associated risks. By offering a phone plan that prioritizes communication without online distractions, Ecotalk aims to protect children from the influence of tech giants like Musk and Zuckerberg. The company is taking proactive steps to safeguard children through its new kids SIM initiative.

Founded in 2018 by Vince, Ecotalk collaborates with environmentalist Chris Packham to undertake ecological projects in Sussex and Devon, focusing on rewilding and conservation efforts.