Chris Hipkins: Labour Leader on a potential social media ban for kids, Winstone's closures, the energy crisis

Canterbury Mornings with John MacDonald

John MacDonald was joined by Chris Hipkins for their regular catchup.

Labour's leader is siding with the Prime Minister in being open to exploring a social media ban for kids.

Australia's Government's examining banning under-16 year olds from using sites like Instagram, Facebook, and X.

Christopher Luxon has said he's looking into the policy.

Chris Hipkins told John MacDonald that he's on the same page, but this shouldn't be seen as a silver bullet as kids ultimately find ways around such things.

He says there also needs to be a good focus on educating kids to be safe online.

Hipkins also says the electricity sector needs more regulation as two central North Island mills have given final confirmation they'll close.

Winstone Pulp is blaming high energy prices for shutting down its Ohakune mills, with the loss of 230 jobs.

Chris Hipkins says the new Government's done away with a consumer advocacy group for electricity users, but intervention is needed.

He says there's clear evidence the market is failing because people are paying too much and electricity company profits are making far too big a profit – evidence the Government should do more.

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