SRINAGAR: UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is expected to announce a ban on social media use for children under the age of 16, in what could become one of the most far-reaching measures yet to regulate children’s online activity, according to reports by The Guardian and Financial Times.
The policy is due to be unveiled in a speech on June 15 and follows earlier government indications that options were being examined to restrict children’s access to social media platforms amid growing concerns over online safety, mental health impacts, and exposure to harmful content.
According to The Guardian, government sources said the proposed ban would apply broadly across major social media platforms, following a model similar to Australia’s approach. Australia’s restrictions cover platforms including TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, Reddit, Facebook, X, Threads, Snapchat, Twitch and Kick for users under 16.
The UK proposal is also understood to extend beyond a straightforward ban on social media access. While gaming applications may not be prohibited outright, platforms commonly used by younger audiences could be required to disable certain functions, including direct messaging with strangers, The Guardian reported.
Further measures under consideration include restricting users under 18 from accessing romantic and sexualised chatbots, alongside steps aimed at limiting late-night scrolling behaviour among children. Some elements of the plan could be enforced under existing regulatory powers, although new legislation may be required to implement the full framework, the newspaper added.
The UK move would follow Australia, which has emerged as a key reference point for governments exploring age-based restrictions on social media use. Similar debates are also taking place internationally as policymakers weigh concerns over children’s exposure to harmful content, addictive platform design, and excessive screen time.
However, the proposals are expected to face criticism from digital rights groups and policy experts. Critics warn that blanket bans could raise privacy concerns, push younger users towards less regulated online spaces, and further isolate children from digital communities.
