Calls are growing to ban smartphones in schools in England by law, as education experts and unions back an MP's attempt to push a new law through Parliament.

Children "doomscrolling for hours a day" is causing widespread harm, according to Josh MacAlister, the Labour MP and former teacher behind the private member's bill being introduced in the House of Commons on Wednesday.

Most schools in England already have a ban or restrictions on phone use, after government guidance was introduced earlier this year.

But Mr MacAlister wants to turn the guidance into law, as well as bringing in what he calls "seatbelt legislation" for children's social-media use.

MPs could debate the proposals in the new year, if there is enough parliamentary time.

Private members' bills rarely make it into law without government backing but they are an opportunity for backbenchers to raise an issue's profile.

And the Safer Phones Bill adds momentum to growing calls to restrict children's smartphone use, with local schools coming together to revise their phone policies and parent groups joining forces to delay giving their child a smartphone.

Some of those in favour of smartphones say they provide good opportunities for child development, including socialising, and there is little evidence supporting restrictions of devices in schools.