Growing concern over the impact of social media on young people has pushed the UK government to consider stronger safeguards, with fresh attention on global efforts to limit children’s online access.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said on Monday that more action was needed to protect children on social media, confirming that the UK is examining Australia’s world-first ban on under-16s using major platforms. Speaking at a press conference, Starmer stressed that “no options are off the table” when asked about possible restrictions for younger users. He also raised concerns about excessive screen time among young children.
The debate has intensified after Australia last month became the first country to block under-16s from accessing platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and YouTube. Similar discussions are now underway in Britain, France, and other countries.
“I think we need to do more to protect children, and that’s why we’re looking at a range of options and saying that no options are off the table,” Starmer said. He is reportedly waiting for more evidence from Australia’s move before deciding on any comparable action in the UK.
Pressure is also mounting within Starmer’s own party. Around 60 Labour MPs wrote an open letter urging the government to change course and restrict access for under-16s, citing concerns about the mental health effects of unregulated and addictive platforms. The lawmakers said successive governments had failed to act decisively.
Opposition voices have echoed these calls. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch urged the prime minister to take stronger steps, writing in a Sunday newspaper: “I want Keir Starmer to do a U-turn – and ban Britain’s under-16s from social media.”
According to UK media reports, a cross-party amendment proposing a ban similar to Australia’s is expected to be voted on this week in the House of Lords. Meanwhile, across the Channel, France is debating proposals for a social media ban for under-15s, including one supported by President Emmanuel Macron.
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