Children under the age of 16 will be banned from using social media under new plans announced by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who described the move as a 'big moment for our country'. Speaking at a Downing Street press conference, Sir Keir said the decision had been driven by growing concerns about the impact of social media on young people’s happiness and mental health. The ban is expected to come into force by early next year, with the Government also introducing wider protections across gaming and live streaming platforms.
Details of the Ban
Under the proposals, social media access for under-16s will be prohibited, while safety restrictions for children up to the age of 17 will be switched on by default. The Government is also exploring additional measures, including overnight curfews and limits on features such as infinite scrolling for under-18s. Sir Keir acknowledged that the policy would not be without challenges, admitting some children may find ways to bypass the restrictions. However, he insisted the move was necessary and said he would not compromise when it comes to children’s safety.
Public Support and Parental Backing
The move follows one of the largest public consultations in recent government history, with more than 116,000 responses submitted and around nine in 10 parents backing a minimum age of 16 for social media access, reports PA. The Prime Minister, who is a father of two, said the decision was shaped by his own experience as a parent. “All I’ve ever wanted for my own children, hand on heart, is for them to be happy and for them to be safe,” he said. “Do we truly believe that social media creates a happy environment for our children? Do we truly believe that it’s a place where they can feel safe? I don’t think I even need to answer those questions.”
Prime Minister’s Statement
“This is not something I do lightly and I will not present it as cost-free, as if social media has brought no benefits to young people, because clearly that is wrong,” he said. “But government is always about choices, and it’s clear to me that a full ban is the right choice.” He added that social media platforms were 'making it easier for bullies to harass and abuse' young users and could be exposing them to harmful content designed to capture attention. The announcement was welcomed by campaigners invited to Downing Street, who applauded the move as a significant step towards improving online safety for children.
International Context
Sir Keir is also expected to raise the issue on the international stage. The announcement came shortly before his departure for the G7 summit in France, where he is due to meet global leaders, including US President Donald Trump. The US administration has previously shown resistance to tighter regulation of social media companies, many of which are based in the United States. The Prime Minister said he had already discussed the issue with Mr Trump and planned to do so again, adding that countries around the world were 'grappling' with how to protect children online.
