UK PM to announce new social media restrictions for children

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is poised to announce significant new restrictions on social media use for children under 16, aiming to "call time on a system that's failing our kids." The government's decision follows a three-month consultation where 90% of respondents backed an outright ban for under-16s, with over 83% believing the risks of social media outweigh its benefits.

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This is a choice about whose side we're on: families across the country, or a status quo that isn't working.

Media reports indicate the UK will ban under-16s from 10 platforms, including TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, and YouTube, mirroring Australia's current prohibitions. However, the UK plans to go further by introducing curfews for older teenagers and imposing restrictions on AI chatbots. Further measures reportedly include barring under-16s from using disappearing messages and livestreaming on certain platforms, and completely removing them from high-risk sites.

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How we keep kids safe online is one of the biggest debates of our time. As a dad, I know every parent wants their child to grow up safe and happy.

Starmer emphasized his commitment to protecting families, stating, "This is a choice about whose side we're on: families across the country, or a status quo that isn't working." He added that the government will "always stand up for parents and put children first" and take "bold action to give every child the best possible start in life."

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People rightly expect action, and this government will always stand up for parents and put children first.

However, the proposed measures have drawn criticism from some campaigners. Ian Russell, whose daughter Molly took her own life at 14 after viewing harmful online content, expressed dismay at the potential bans. He warned that such a ban could create a "false sense of safety" and push children to other, potentially more dangerous, parts of the internet, while also depriving them of valuable online connections. Organizations like the NSPCC, Internet Watch Foundation, and Childnet have echoed these concerns, advocating for better regulation over outright bans.

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That's why we will call time on a system that's failing our kids and take bold action to give every child the best possible start in life.