UK considers social media limits for youth
A possible social media ban for young people is under review in the UK as Labour and opposition parties converge around tougher protections for children online.
Keir Starmer has told Labour MPs that he is open to an Australian-style ban on social media for young people, following concerns about the amount of time children spend on screens.
The prime minister said reports of very young children using phones for hours each day have increased anxiety about the effects of digital platforms on under-16s.
Starmer previously opposed such a ban, arguing that enforcement would prove difficult and might instead push teenagers towards unregulated online spaces rather than safer platforms. Growing political momentum across Westminster, combined with Australia’s decision to act, has led to a reassessment of that position.
Speaking to MPs, Starmer said different enforcement approaches were being examined and added that phone use during school hours should be restricted.
UK ministers have also revisited earlier proposals aimed at reducing the addictive design of social media and strengthening safeguards on devices sold to teenagers.
Support for stricter measures has emerged across party lines, with senior figures from Labour, the Conservatives, the Liberal Democrats and Reform UK signalling openness to a ban.
A final decision is expected within months as ministers weigh child safety, regulation and practical implementation.
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