The UK government has confirmed it will introduce restrictions on social media use for under-16s, signaling a tougher regulatory stance on online safety for children.
Education Minister Olivia Bailey said the measures, which could include age limits or limits on platform functionality, will be implemented regardless of the outcome of an ongoing consultation into the impact of social media on young users.
The move follows sustained pressure from lawmakers, particularly in the House of Lords, where efforts have been led by John Nash, a former education minister. MPs had also voted multiple times to push for stricter controls, reflecting growing political consensus around the need to address online harms.
The government had already been exploring measures to restrict minors’ access to digital platforms, including potential curbs on social media, gaming services, and artificial intelligence tools. The latest announcement suggests a shift from consultation to implementation.
John Nash described the decision as “a huge step forward for our children’s safety online”.
The proposed restrictions are part of a broader effort by policymakers to balance access to technology with safeguarding concerns, as regulators globally face increasing scrutiny of the impact of digital platforms on young users.
With input from WAM
