Minister promises 'some form' of social media restrictions for under-16s

The UK government will impose age or functionality restrictions on social media for under-16s, Education Minister Olivia Bailey announced. The decision comes after the House of Lords voted in support of a social media ban for under-16s for a fourth time. Bailey did not provide specific details but said the government is consulting on the mechanism and will act once the consultation concludes. The government is focused on addictive features, harmful algorithmically-driven content, and features. A progress report is required three months after the legislation receives royal assent, and regulations must be laid within 12 months. Conservative shadow education secretary Laura Trott described the government's move as a 'huge step forward in keeping children safe'.