UK PM Starmer tells social media firms to 'take responsibility' for children's safety online

Prime Minister Keir Starmer is taking a firm stance, demanding that social media giants "step up and take responsibility" for the safety of children online. As the UK government intensifies its scrutiny of these platforms, Starmer is set to meet with executives from Meta, Snap, Google, TikTok, and X to underscore the urgent need for greater accountability. The administration highlights the pervasive risks children face online, from impacts on mental well-being to disruptions in sleep, family life, and academic performance.

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Social media shapes how children see themselves, their friendships, and the world around them. When that comes with real risks, looking the other way is not an option.

Starmer's message is clear: "Looking the other way is not an option." He is prepared to "take whatever steps necessary to keep children safe online," signaling a potential for regulatory action if companies do not proactively address these concerns. While acknowledging some existing safety measures, such as YouTube's autoplay disabling for children and parental controls, Starmer insists these are insufficient and that the government must go further.

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"I will take whatever steps necessary to keep children safe online. Today is about making sure social media companies step up and take responsibility," he added.

The UK is currently consulting on a range of potential restrictions for minors, including possible age bans for under-16s, mandatory curfews, limits on daily app usage, and measures to curb addictive design features. This proactive approach aligns with global trends, as Australia has already implemented a ban for under-16s, and European nations are actively considering similar regulations. The focus remains on ensuring that the digital environment is safe and supportive for young users, reflecting a growing international consensus on the need for stronger online protections.

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Britain is consulting until next month on whether to restrict children's access to social media, including a possible ban for under-16s, as well as curfews, app time limits, and curbs on what it described as addictive design features.