Starmer Announces Social Media Ban for Under-16s
Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced today that the UK will ban children under 16 from accessing major social media platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, X, YouTube, and Facebook.
Speaking at Downing Street, Starmer called the move “a big moment for our country” aimed at protecting young people from harmful content, bullying, addiction, and mental health harm. The ban is set to take effect in early 2027, with platforms required to enforce age verification or face large fines.
“Every parent can see it with their own eyes. Social media is making children unhappy,” Starmer said. “I’m not prepared to compromise on the safety and happiness of our children.”
The policy covers main social media apps but exempts services like YouTube Kids and private messaging such as WhatsApp. Additional rules on gaming, livestreaming, and features like infinite scrolling are expected soon. It follows a public consultation with strong support and mirrors Australia’s 2025 ban.
Starmer said the measure will help restore childhood activities like play, reading, and sleep, building on existing online safety laws.
The reaction to the step was mixed. Child protection groups supported it, while privacy advocates worried about data concerns and tech firms warned it could lead to users visiting unregulated sites. Some young people were disappointed.
The UK joins a growing global effort to restrict children’s social media access.
