UK social media restrictions: ‘Some form of restrictions will be imposed’: UK minister Olivia Bailey on social media use by under-16s

British Education Secretary Olivia Bailey​

The British government has pledged to impose restrictions on social media use by children under 16, although it has stopped short of backing an outright ban proposed by the House of Lords. The move comes after a long-running dispute between the two houses over the Child Welfare and Schools Bill.MPs backed the government’s revised proposals in the House of Commons, paving the way for the legislation to return to the House of Lords for final approval before becoming law.

Confirm “some form of restriction”

Education Minister Olivia Bailey told parliament that the government would impose “some form of age or functionality restrictions” on social media platforms for under-16s, the BBC reported.She stressed that the current situation “cannot continue” and said restrictions such as curfews could also be considered alongside age restrictions. However, specific measures will be decided after ongoing public consultation.Bailey added that the law would require the government to act after consultation, stressing that the question was “how” to act, not “if”.

Implementation timetable

The government said a progress report on the bill would be issued within three months of receiving royal assent. Regulations are expected to be introduced within 12 months, although ministers have said they aim to move faster, possibly before the end of this year.In exceptional circumstances, the timetable can be extended by six months, but an explanation must be given to Parliament.Conservative shadow education secretary Laura Trott welcomed the move, saying it was a “big step forward” in protecting children online and supporting parents.However, Lib Dem leader Ed Davey criticized the government for delaying stronger action, accusing it of “dodging” the issue and urging faster implementation.Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson defended the approach, saying the government was committed to taking action but wanted to ensure the measures were effective.

Activists welcome action

Activists and families of the deceased welcomed the government’s pledge. Ellen Roome, whose 14-year-old son died as a result of an alleged online challenge, said many parents were “delighted” and excited about the news.She said the goal of pushing for regulation is to prevent similar tragedies from happening to other families.

Watch out for harmful content and features

Ministers said the proposed rules would target addictive platform features and harmful algorithm-driven content seen as putting young users at risk online.The final form of restrictions will depend on consultations with parents, experts and sporting groups.