Government vows to bring in under-16 social media restrictions by end of year

The UK government will implement social media restrictions for children under 16 by the end of the year, following the conclusion of a public consultation. Technology Secretary Liz Kendall confirmed the government will act, with potential measures including outright bans on platforms like those in Australia, app curfews, or disabling features such as infinite scroll and auto-play. The consultation, which closed on Tuesday, received over 70,000 submissions from parents, charities, and campaign groups. Kendall stated the government will consider a broad range of interventions, including stricter age verification and limiting access to AI chatbots. While some groups, including police leaders and bereaved families like Ellen Roome (whose son Jools died at 14), advocate for bans on harmful platforms, others argue enforcement of existing laws would be more effective. Ian Russell of the Molly Rose Foundation warned against 'sledgehammer techniques,' suggesting tech firms should align with film classification standards instead. Campaigners meeting Prime Minister Keir Starmer urged swift action, framing social media as a 'faulty product' requiring restrictions until proven safe. Meanwhile, the UK’s medical authorities have also called for stricter controls, citing serious health impacts on young users. The government’s response to the consultation is expected in summer, with final restrictions in place by year-end. Concerns over Australia’s ban effectiveness—where under-16s still access blocked sites—highlight challenges in enforcement. Kendall emphasized balancing public safety with practical solutions, aiming for measures that are both impactful and sustainable.