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UK Government Plans to Regulate Social Media for Under-16s Without Full Ban
Britain ‘to stop short of full social media ban for under-16s’ and outlaw addictive features instead
The Independent
Image: The Independent
The UK government will likely avoid a full ban on social media for under-16s, focusing instead on prohibiting addictive features like infinite scrolling and autoplay. This decision follows a major consultation that received over 81,000 responses, highlighting concerns over children's safety online.
- 01The UK government is considering banning addictive features on social media for users under 16, rather than instituting a complete ban.
- 02Treasury minister Dan Tomlinson emphasized the need for serious action, stating the issue affects millions of young people.
- 03Former health secretary Wes Streeting advocates for a full ban on social media for under-16s, likening it to tobacco regulation.
- 04Bereaved parents of children linked to social media harms met with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, urging immediate action and a review of online safety regulations.
- 05The consultation closed with over 81,000 responses, indicating widespread public interest and concern regarding children's online safety.
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The UK government is set to propose regulations on social media for users under 16, focusing on banning addictive features such as infinite scrolling, autoplay, and location sharing, rather than implementing a full ban like Australia's. This decision follows a consultation that garnered over 81,000 responses, reflecting significant public concern about children's safety online. Treasury minister Dan Tomlinson acknowledged the seriousness of the issue, stating that the government would act decisively. In contrast, former health secretary Wes Streeting has called for an outright ban, comparing social media's impact on youth to that of tobacco. Parents of children who have suffered due to social media met with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, pressing for urgent action and a review of regulatory bodies. They emphasized the need for swift measures to protect children, with some expressing skepticism about the government's commitment. The government's forthcoming plans are expected to be announced ahead of the Makerfield by-election on June 18.
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The proposed regulations aim to enhance the safety of children online by addressing addictive social media features.
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