UK social media ban LIVE: Bereaved parents shed tears as Keir Starmer unveils major restrictions

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer unveiled plans to ban social media for children under 16, framing it as part of a broader package of online safety reforms aimed at protecting young people from harm. The announcement followed advocacy from bereaved parents, including Ellen Roome, whose 14-year-old son Jools Sweeney died in 2022 after allegedly participating in an online challenge. Roome and other affected families expressed relief, calling the policy a long-overdue step to prevent further tragedies. The government’s proposal targets tech companies, with Starmer stating that current systems are failing children and demanding stricter accountability. Supporters, including former *Strictly Come Dancing* stars James Jordan and Vincent Simone, praised the move, arguing that social media exposes young users to toxic content and unrealistic comparisons that damage mental health. Jordan, a father of a six-year-old, described the ban as necessary to shield children from the platform’s negative influences. In Ireland, Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Tánaiste Simon Harris welcomed the UK’s decision, framing social media as a public health crisis akin to tobacco and alcohol. They expressed hope that the European Union would adopt similar measures, citing ongoing discussions within the Commission. Martin emphasized that governments must act decisively to protect young people, referencing Australia’s existing restrictions as a potential model. The policy faces practical challenges, including enforcement and technological barriers, but supporters argue the risks of inaction outweigh the difficulties. Starmer’s government has positioned the ban as a priority, with officials stressing that children under 16 should prioritize offline activities like play and skill-building over social media engagement. Critics may question the feasibility of a blanket ban, but the UK’s move signals a shift toward stricter regulation of digital platforms. The Irish Government’s endorsement suggests broader regional momentum, though EU-level coordination remains uncertain. For now, the focus is on implementing safeguards to mitigate the mental health and safety risks posed by unregulated online spaces for minors.