Keir Starmer: UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer proposes banning social media for TikTok, Instagram and Snapchat for under-16s | Keir Starmer World News
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has announced that the government will ban under-16s from major social media platforms, calling it the most significant overhaul of online child safety rules in a generation.The measures, unveiled in Downing Street on Monday, aim to address growing concerns about the impact of social media on young people’s mental health, exposure to harmful content and contact with strangers online. The plans go beyond Australia’s recently introduced restrictions and have been described by government sources as an “Australia+” model.The crackdown is expected to cover major platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, Facebook, X, YouTube, Reddit, Threads, Twitch and other services considered to pose risks to children. Gaming platforms and AI chatbots will also introduce additional restrictions.
Prime Minister Starmer says system is ‘failing children’
Announcing the policy, Starmer described the move as “an important moment for our country” and argued social media companies had been operating for too long without providing adequate safeguards for young users.He said children were regularly exposed to harmful content, cyberbullying and addictive features designed to maximize screen time. The Prime Minister acknowledged the benefits social media can bring but insisted the protection of children must come first.Speaking in Downing Street, Starmer said he was “not prepared to compromise on the safety and well-being of our children”, adding that the current system failed to adequately protect young people online.The Prime Minister also stressed that the government would not be deterred by concerns that some teenagers might try to get around the restrictions, arguing that the purpose of the law was to set standards and protect children, even if there were difficulties in enforcement.
Which platforms may be affected?
While the government has yet to publish a final list of platforms covered by the ban, ministers said the restrictions would apply to many of the world’s largest social media networks.Platforms expected to be included include TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, X, YouTube, Reddit and Threads, with more details to be announced as implementation progresses.The government is also targeting features that allow children to interact with strangers online. Under the proposals, gaming platforms would face tighter controls, with young users potentially unable to use features such as direct messaging with unknown adults.Officials said the aim of the move is not just to limit the use of social media, but to reduce opportunities for grooming, bullying and harmful interactions that can occur on digital platforms.
No AI and late night scrolling
The government’s plans extend beyond traditional social media.Under the proposed rules, teens under 18 would be banned from using romantic or sexual artificial intelligence chatbots amid growing concerns about inappropriate interactions between minors and artificial intelligence tools.The government is also preparing restrictions aimed at reducing excessive use of social media by older teenagers. These include measures aimed at limiting late-night scrolling and curbing addictive features like the infinite scroll algorithm. Reports suggest specific restrictions may be in place after the evening, but final details have yet to be confirmed.Ministers believe many online products are designed to maximize engagement and keep young users online for long periods of time, often at the expense of sleep, wellbeing and mental health.
British parents back tougher rules
The announcement follows one of the UK government’s largest consultations on children’s online safety.More than 116,000 responses were received and ministers said the findings showed public support for tougher action. According to the government, some 90% of parents support raising the minimum age for social media use to 16, while 83% say the risks of social media to children outweigh its benefits.Government sources said the Prime Minister’s stance had hardened after reviewing consultation responses and hearing the concerns of parents, campaigners and families affected by online harm.At the Downing Street event, Starmer was joined by campaigners and parents who have long called for stronger protections for children online, with the Prime Minister acknowledging their role in driving change.
When will the ban be enforced?
The government said the new rules are expected to come into force in spring 2027, giving tech companies time to introduce age verification systems and adapt their services.Ministers are exploring various enforcement options, including age guarantee technology and stronger regulatory powers. The government has said it may use existing legislation as well as new legal measures where necessary to ensure compliance.Tech companies are expected to come under intense pressure to implement the changes, with Starmer saying the government is prepared to challenge big tech companies if they resist.
