British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is preparing to announce a package of measures Monday aimed at protecting children online, including possible restrictions on social media use for those under 16, according to a Downing Street spokesperson.Subscribe to read this story ad-free Get unlimited access to ad-free articles and exclusive content.“How we keep kids safe online is one of the biggest debates of our time.As a dad, I know every parent wants their child to grow up safe and happy,” Starmer said in a statement.
“This is a choice about whose side we’re on: families across the country, or a status quo that isn’t working.”Starmer’s government has been considering tougher limits on children’s social media as governments around the world face growing pressure to curb young people’s time online.The push gained momentum after Australia became the first country to pass a law barring children under 16 from accessing major social media platforms, an effort aimed at addressing the concerns about the physical and mental health effects of excessive online use.The announcement also follows a national consultation survey that received more than 116,000 responses between March 2 and May 26 and solicited public opinions on children’s use of technology.More than 83% of parents who responded said the risks of social media use outweigh the benefits, according to the consultation, and 90% expressed support for a minimum age of 16 before children can access social media platforms.Enforcement has historically been difficult, however, as children often find ways around age limits imposed by technology companies.In Australia, those under 16 are now prohibited from using platforms including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, Snapchat and Reddit.
But since the ban took effect in December, authorities have struggled to enforce it.Australia’s eSafety Commission, its top internet regulator, found in March that 7 in 10 parents reported their child still had an account o...