London: British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has indicated that children under 16 could soon face restrictions on using social media platforms. The proposal forms part of a broader effort to strengthen online safety laws in the United Kingdom.
Speaking about the initiative, Starmer said the government is preparing to seek expanded powers to better regulate internet access. He emphasized that protecting young people from digital harm has become a national priority.
The prime minister noted that technology is evolving at an unprecedented speed. As online platforms grow more complex, he argued that legislation must adapt quickly to address new and emerging risks.
Officials are reviewing stronger oversight mechanisms that would limit harmful content and improve age verification systems. The government believes tighter rules are necessary to shield minors from exploitation and inappropriate material.
The UK administration has also taken steps to examine artificial intelligence tools. Recent scrutiny has focused on AI chatbots, including concerns about their ability to generate explicit or harmful content.
Lawmakers are currently considering amendments to existing crime and child protection laws. These changes aim to ensure that digital platforms and AI developers are held accountable under stricter regulatory frameworks.
Last month, the government confirmed it would launch consultations on introducing a social media ban for under-16s, following a model similar to Australia’s approach. Several European countries, including Spain, Greece, and Slovenia, are also exploring comparable measures.
If approved, the proposed restrictions would mark a significant shift in how the UK manages youth access to online platforms. The final decision will depend on parliamentary debate and the outcome of ongoing consultations.
