Prime Minister Keir Starmer is considering a British social media ban for under-16s, keeping "all options on the table" to safeguard children. He referenced Australia's recent ban as a possible model, amidst anticipation from Labour MPs and officials that the UK might follow suit. Next week, the House of Lords will vote on a similar proposal, potentially increasing pressure on the government.

Last week, the Conservatives vowed to restrict under-16s' access to social media and ban smartphones in schools if victorious in the next election. Kemi Badenoch, Tory leader, linked "addictive" apps to rising youth mental health issues. Labour Mayor Andy Burnham echoed support, agreeing with "a lot of what Kemi Badenoch is saying."

Meta's recent compliance with Australia's law saw 500,000 blocked accounts. Sir Keir emphasised learning from Australia, stating, "We need to better protect children from social media," considering restrictions beyond social media to screen time for under-fives. Labour insiders express frustration over being behind on the issue, while a government source noted public and parental support for such measures.

This debate ties into a House of Lords amendment to the Children's Wellbeing and Schools Bill proposed by Lord Nash and backed by prominent peers. Optimism surrounds its passage, which could prompt a binding Commons vote soon. Government preparation for further battles with tech giants may occur following a separate confrontation with X over Grok AI.

Wes Streeting highlighted risks of social media on BBC Radio 4, mentioning dangers like grooming and violent extremism. The Molly Rose Foundation warned of unintended harm from bans, urging regulation and touting evidence-based solutions. The Department of Science, Innovation and Technology confirmed a study's forthcoming release, promising a policy aligned with robust evidence.

The Online Safety Act mandates tech companies prevent harmful content exposure to youth, with non-compliance leading to penalties. Platforms like Instagram restrict underage use, while Meta's Teen Accounts implement parental control and safety features.

Key Takeaways:

• Keir Starmer is open to a social media ban for UK under-16s, inspired by Australia.

• The House of Lords will soon vote on an amendment to the child protection bill.

• Debates highlight social media's impact on youth, considering balanced regulation.

  

Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2026-01-16

 

 

Well it worked in Australia.......???

Many under-16s are evading it easily—lying about age during signup, using makeup/lighting to fool facial estimation, creating new accounts with fake details, borrowing adult/family accounts, or using VPNs to appear outside Australia (VPN use remains legal, though platforms try to block it).

I expect Starmer to announce this as intended policy. He has to do this because I have an even greater expectation that he will then u-turn because of the obvious public reaction that will ensue.

I'm just counting down the days until this awful government is removed. Perhaps allowing lawfully-required local elections will accelerate this.