British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced plans to prohibit children under 16 from using social media platforms, framing the move as a way to help young people reclaim their childhood. The restrictions will extend to gaming and livestreaming services that facilitate stranger communication, with implementation expected to begin in early 2025.
The ban will target platforms where users can interact with each other and post content moderated by algorithms. This encompasses TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, Snapchat, Facebook and X. The government clarified that messaging apps like WhatsApp and music streaming services would remain accessible, though these exemptions may be reviewed as the policy develops.
Enforcement will focus on holding social media companies accountable rather than penalising young people who circumvent the restrictions. Regulator Ofcom will undertake a priority investigation into the most effective age verification methods. The government aims to introduce the necessary legislation before Christmas, with a full policy consultation response arriving in July.
The framework will also investigate nighttime curfews and limits on infinite scrolling for teenagers aged under 18. Functionality restrictions imposed on under-16s will automatically apply to 16- and 17-year-olds as default settings, creating a graduated approach across age groups.
Starmer characterised the initiative as preventing strangers from contacting children through online platforms. Ofcom will receive new enforcement authority and funding to oversee compliance with the regulations once implemented.
