At the London 2016 Founder Forum, Prince William discussed his fears for his children in the future.
The father of Prince George and Princess Charlotte discussed the downside of the internet in terms of cyber bullying and trolling.
“As Catherine and I started our family a few years ago, I was alarmed about the increasing reports of online bullying that were making headlines around the world,” he said.
“From the girls developing eating disorders after being subjected to a campaign of abuse on social media, to the teenage boys who took their own lives following constant targeting – as a parent myself, I was appalled.”
“What we were seeing was that social media and messaging had transformed bullying from something that was not only the torment of the classroom and playground, but something that followed you home as well – to the one safe haven that children should have.”
The Duke of Cambridge praised the technology industry for their efforts in combating cyber bullying, however he singled out Apple who are yet to get on board.
“We have a lot of work ahead of us, but by this time next year we expect to have a plan in place to achieve fundamental improvements in online safety for bullied children.”
“To school-age children today, there is no difference between their online and offline lives. Bullying is bullying, wherever it happens.”
However, it wasn’t all negative with him acknowledging that technology has achieved some amazing things.
“I must admit, like most people my age, I’d struggle without my smart phone – for news, sports, music and the odd bit of gaming. And technology is a big part of my working life, too. As an air ambulance pilot, I love the fact that the helicopter I fly is fitted out with some of the life-saving medical equipment; and I consider social media to be central to how the Royal Family communicates in the 21st century.”
“But while new technology can of course create new problems, it is my belief that innovation in technology is a force for good, and that these advancements can do a lot more good than the harm that is often talked about.”
WATCH: Prince William speaks at Founders Forum in London
