The government has pledged to implement restrictions on social media for individuals under the age of 16 to address the ongoing debate surrounding a proposed ban similar to that in Australia. Education Minister Olivia Bailey informed Members of Parliament that some form of age or functionality limitations will be enforced. This commitment followed repeated votes by the House of Lords advocating for the exclusion of all under-16s from platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat.
The government, in response to mounting pressure, had previously refrained from a complete ban, opting to evaluate the results of an ongoing consultation. However, Bailey confirmed that restrictions will be put in place regardless. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson emphasized the importance of creating lasting solutions to address concerns about the online exposure and habits of young people.
Phillipson expressed her worries about the online content young individuals are exposed to, as well as the potentially addictive nature of certain features that keep them engaged. She stressed the need for effective measures that garner the trust of parents and advocates. The decision to introduce restrictions on social media access for children under 16 was met with approval from various quarters, including Tory peer Lord Nash, who praised the move as a significant advancement in safeguarding children online.
The government’s consultation on technology access for under-16s had already been initiated, exploring options like age-based restrictions on social media platforms and other online services. Shadow education secretary Laura Trott commended the government’s commitment to impose age restrictions for under-16s, alongside the consideration of curfews, as a crucial step in protecting children and supporting parents in managing screen time.
Advocates, including Esther Ghey, whose daughter was tragically killed in 2023, have supported the proposed ban. Opposition leader Keir Starmer urged major tech companies to implement necessary changes promptly to address the risks posed to children by current social media practices. Starmer emphasized the need for a safer online environment for children, even if it requires restricting access to certain platforms.
