Starmer set to announce social media ban for under 16s in UK

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is reportedly preparing to unveil a social media ban for under-16s, following a national consultation that closed last month.

The move comes amid growing concerns about the impact of online platforms on young people’s mental health and wellbeing.

Sir Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London, has already backed the proposed ban.

Mr Khan said: “Tech firms must prove their services are safe for children or face a ban on being available to under-16s.”

The plan is expected to be announced before the Makerfield by-election on June 18.

Ministers would not be drawn on whether Sir Keir will announce a ban.

Dame Rachel de Souza, Children’s Commissioner for England, has called for the restrictions to be extended to under-18s.

Dame Rachel said: “We need action to address technology companies’ unfettered access to children, often through features designed in ways that increase harm.”

Ministers have been mulling evidence from Australia, which imposed a blanket ban in December.

A separate consultation will lead to guidance for parents on when a child should get their first smartphone and how long under-16s should spend in front of screens.

Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said: “Parents are trying to navigate challenges previous generations never faced, and they deserve clear, practical support they can trust.

“Some will argue the answer is to turn back the clock and return to a world of only pens and paper. I disagree.

“Used well, technology can open up opportunities for children with Send, personalise support and help more children succeed.

“We want every child to benefit from technology’s opportunities without sacrificing the things that matter most – their learning, their wellbeing and their childhood.”

Dame Rachel acknowledged the positive aspects of technology but said that many young people struggle to limit their usage, despite wanting to spend less time online.