UK Targets Under-16s: Starmer Plans Major Social Media Ban!
UK Targets Under-16s: Starmer Plans Major Social Media Ban!
Prime Minister Keir Starmer is set to announce a sweeping ban on major social media for under-16s, including TikTok & Instagram. This "Australia-plus" plan aims to protect kids online, with potential curfews and AI restr
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is preparing to unveil "bold action" aimed at protecting children online, with a significant announcement expected on Monday. The centerpiece of this new policy is an anticipated ban on major social media platforms for under-16s, a move that would affect popular apps like TikTok, Snapchat, and Instagram.
The proposed regulations go further than just a ban. The government is also looking to prohibit children from livestreaming on platforms deemed "safer" and prevent them from interacting with strangers on gaming applications. While ministers are currently exploring the implementation of social media curfews for younger users, further details on these specific measures are expected to be released next month.
Whitehall sources are already describing the UK's ambitious scheme as "Australia-plus," referencing Australia's own initiative. Australia introduced the world's first outright ban on social media for under-16s in December 2025, and the UK's proposal is set to build upon this precedent with additional stringent measures. This could include curfews specifically for older teenagers and new restrictions on AI chatbots, pushing the UK's online safety framework beyond existing models.
Sir Keir Starmer emphasized the rationale behind these drastic steps. "How we keep kids safe online is one of the biggest debates of our time. As a dad, I know every parent wants their child to grow up safe and happy," he stated. He added, "This is a choice about whose side we're on: families across the country, or a status quo that isn't working... People rightly expect action, and this government will always stand up for parents and put children first." He concluded by asserting that the government would "call time on a system that's failing our kids."
While a government consultation indicated that a majority of the public supports a social media ban for under-16s, the proposals are not without their critics. Some campaigners have voiced concerns that such comprehensive measures could inadvertently lead to new problems or unintended consequences. The ban is reportedly set to encompass the same ten platforms now prohibited for under-16s in Australia: TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, YouTube, Reddit, Twitch, X, Threads, Facebook, and Kick. The debate over balancing online freedom with child safety is clearly intensifying as the UK prepares for this landmark policy shift.
