Mobile Phones in Schools

Part of the debate – in the Scottish Parliament at 4:48 pm on 3 September 2024.

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Photo of Jenny Gilruth Jenny Gilruth Scottish National Party 4:48, 3 September 2024

Yes, it will empower headteachers to undertake a mobile phone ban. Many schools already have one. I read a piece in one of the newspapers in relation to Mr Paterson’s views on the issue. I am slightly concerned that he does not understand the limitations on my powers as cabinet secretary. I cannot enforce a national ban—I do not have that power. However, local authorities, who run our schools, have that power. That is why I trust Scotland’s headteachers to get it right in their schools. I support Scotland’s headteachers in taking the right decisions for the young people in their care. I am not sure whether Mr Paterson disagrees with that statement, but I do not.