The House of Lords backs social media ban for under-16s
Ministers have launched a three-month consultation to assess age checks on social media and stronger safeguards before considering legislative changes.
The upper house of the Parliament of the United Kingdom,, the House of Lords has voted in favour of banning under-16s from social media platforms, backing an amendment to the government’s schools bill by 261 votes to 150. The proposal would require ministers to define restricted platforms and enforce robust age verification within a year.
Political momentum for tighter youth protections has grown after Australia’s similar move, with cross-party support emerging at Westminster. More than 60 Labour MPs have joined Conservatives in urging a UK ban, increasing pressure ahead of a Commons vote.
Supporters argue that excessive social media use contributes to declining mental health, online radicalisation, and classroom disruption. Critics warn that a blanket ban could push teenagers toward less regulated platforms and limit positive benefits, urging more vigorous enforcement of existing safety rules.
The government has rejected the amendment and launched a three-month consultation on age checks, curfews, and curbing compulsive online behaviour. Ministers maintain that further evidence is needed before introducing new legal restrictions.
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