UK Contemplates Social Media Ban for Teenagers

The British government considers banning teenagers from social media to protect them from harmful content. Consulting stakeholders, they may impose restrictions akin to Australia's approach. This includes setting age limits and controlling addictive features. A public consultation on the matter is expected to conclude by summer.

The British government is weighing the possibility of banning young teenagers from accessing social media platforms. This move is part of broader legislation aimed at shielding children from harmful content and limiting screen time.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized that no measures are off-limits as the government consults with various stakeholders, including parents and young people, to ensure safe technology usage. Concern mounts over unregulated social media content harming children.

Seeking inspiration, UK ministers plan to visit Australia to assess its recent legislation that bans children under the age of 16 from using major social media apps. This initiative comes after a group of Labour Party lawmakers urged the government to implement similar age restrictions in Britain. A public consultation outcome is anticipated by summer.

(With inputs from agencies.)