Britain will announce sweeping restrictions Monday to curb social media access for children under 16. Popular platforms and addictive design features face outright bans.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer, responding to mounting parental alarm, declared the current system a failure requiring bold intervention. The decision draws directly from Australia’s landmark ban enacted in December.
More than 83% of parents consulted by the government stated social media’s risks overshadow benefits, with 90% backing a minimum access age of 16.
Culture Minister Lisa Nandy noted that legislation changes the cultural default, removing the assumption that young children belong on these platforms.
Beyond total bans, the government is considering curfews, time limits, and restrictions on gaming apps that allow minors to contact strangers.