MPs reject under-16s social media ban in Commons vote

MPs have rejected a proposed ban on social media for under-16s, defeating the amendment to the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill by 307 votes to 173 (a majority of 134). The plan, modelled on an Australian-style approach, had backing from peers and campaigners including actor Hugh Grant.

Critics warned that a blanket ban could drive teenagers to unregulated corners of the internet or leave them unprepared when they come online.

Education Secretary Olivia Bailey told MPs that the government has launched a consultation to shape next steps and consider whether social media platforms should carry a minimum age, tighten VPN use, and change the age of digital consent. Science Secretary Liz Kendall could restrict or ban children of certain ages from accessing social media services and chat bots.

While the amendment failed, ministers signalled that tighter controls remain on the table, with the government continuing to consider giving additional powers to the Secretary of State.

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