Byron: Shared responsibility for protection needed

The author of a review of children and new technology says government should share responsibility for protecting children alongside industries, education, child welfare organisations and law enforcement.

Tanya Byron's proposals to enhance the ratings system for video games and create an internet safety watchdog are to be implemented "immediately" by the government.

Speaking as her review was launched, Dr Byron said it was right that children push the boundaries as they explore the "digital world".

"By putting in place the right roles and support for children, young people and families we can reduce much of the anxiety that currently exists by taking a joint and shared responsibility," she said.

Dr Byron warned the "generational divide" must be overcome but said the best analogy for parents was with protecting children in swimming pools.

"Children will sometimes take risks and jump into waters too deep for them or want to climb walls and get through locked doors – therefore we… teach them how to swim," she explained.

"We must adopt the same combination of approaches in order to enable our children and young people to navigate these exciting digital waters while supporting and empowering them to do so safely."