Labour will support the Government’s social media bill through its first reading, and calls on the Government to send the Bill to select committee before the election.

“We want to help parents keep kids safe from online harm. We take this very seriously and need to make sure legislation is fit for purpose and the select committee process will provide an opportunity for the Bill to be improved,” Labour Leader Chris Hipkins said.

“With Labour’s support there is no reason for the Government to delay the Bill and we expect to see it in through its first reading before the election.

“Labour is prepared to do the work to make this legislation better. The sooner we get this process underway the better,” Chris Hipkins said.

“The Select Committee process will provide all Kiwis to with the chance to have their say. The Bill is not perfect and undoubtedly can be improved. We particularly want to make sure the proposed safety nets don’t do more harm than good,” Labour science, technology and innovation spokesperson Reuben Davidson said.