UK PM Starmer announces social media ban for under-16s

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirmed on Tuesday that the government will implement a complete ban on social media access for children under the age of 16, calling it a "big moment for our country" and a significant change for children and the future.

Starmer defended the full ban, arguing that social media is making children unhappy and unsafe. He acknowledged that the decision was not taken lightly and that social media has benefits, but said the government had to choose, and a total ban was the right choice. Speaking as a parent, he noted that social media enables bullying, harms mental health, and is designed to be addictive – with features like infinite scroll that keep children engaged for hours, preventing them from doing homework, reading, playing outside, or sleeping on time.

The prime minister thanked campaigners who have long advocated for restrictions, saying the government listened "very carefully" to their voices. This marks an implicit admission that the government has changed its position; last summer it showed little interest in following Australia's lead, but now it is adopting an "Australia plus" approach that combines a full ban with tougher measures on the most harmful features.

The Conservative Party quickly claimed credit, with shadow education secretary Laura Trott accusing Labour of having voted against a ban three times before changing course only when Starmer's job was at risk. She said the victory belongs to the brave parents and campaigners who never gave up.

Starmer's announcement came ahead of his departure for the G7 summit in France and the upcoming Makerfield by-election, where Andy Burnham is expected to be elected, potentially reshaping UK politics.