UK Moves To Ban Social Media for Under-16s
The United Kingdom could soon ban access to social media for children under 16. Prime Minister Keir Starmer says the proposal aims to protect children from online harm, following a similar move by Australia. The plan would also introduce additional restrictions for older teens, including possible nighttime curfews.
UK Government Moves to Bar Access to Facebook, X for Under-16s
REPORTER:
Many UK teens may soon be barred from using platforms like Instagram, X and Facebook as Prime Minister Kier Starmer adds his country to the list of nations putting forth legislation curbing social media access for teens.
Keir Starmer (UK PRIME MINISTER):
This is not something I do lightly. And I will not present it as cost-free, as if social media has brought no benefits to young people, because clearly that is wrong. But government is always about choices and it's clear to me that a full ban is the right choice.
REPORTER:
Starmer said his government has the authority to take initial steps in enacting the ban, expected to come into effect next spring. It would be a total ban for those under 16, with additional restrictions such as night-time curfews for those between 16 and 18. How such a ban would be enforced remains to be seen.
REPORTER:
The UK is the latest country to try and restrict social media use among minors. In 2025, Australia became the first country on earth to implement such a ban, citing concerns over minors’ mental health and safety.
Keir Starmer (UK PRIME MINISTER):
At the moment, strangers can contact any child unchecked. Just think about that. Is there a situation in the offline world where you would just let your child pair up with a stranger, an adult that you don't know anything about? No.
REPORTER:
Critics of the policy point out that despite risks, minors use social media to learn, make friends, and unite around causes they care about. They say such bans could push young people towards less safe and less regulated services.
The UK government is moving forward despite the pushback.
