Plans to restrict children’s smartphone usage, such as implementing a social media ban for those under 16 or imposing curfews on app usage, may be unveiled in the coming months.
Tech Secretary Liz Kendall disclosed earlier this year that the government is committed to swiftly restoring “children’s childhood” and preparing them for the future.
The UK Government is presently seeking input on enhancing social media safety for children, with various options on the table, including addressing addictive features and potentially enforcing curfews. The possibility of a complete social media ban for those under 16 is under review as part of the ongoing three-month consultation.
This initiative follows calls for a social media ban for children under 16, with Australia implementing a similar ban in December and Spain and other European nations also considering such measures.
However, critics, including bereaved families and experts, caution that a ban might lead children to unregulated online spaces like chatrooms or gaming platforms.
Despite Australia’s ban on social media for under 16s, recent surveys indicate that a significant number of Australian adolescents aged 12 to 15 still access restricted platforms.
The UK’s consultation on new social media safeguards commenced in March and will prioritize feedback from parents and children.
Proposed measures could include restricting the use of virtual private networks (VPNs) and implementing controls to prevent excessive scrolling. The government plans to introduce new legal powers in an upcoming Children’s and Wellbeing Bill to facilitate prompt action following the conclusion of the consultation next month.
Additionally, Keir Starmer has outlined plans to address a legal loophole to shield children from harmful interactions with AI chatbots.
The debate over implementing a social media ban for those under 16 is ongoing in Westminster. Share your opinion by participating in our poll.
