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Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced a nationwide ban on social media access for children under the age of 16, describing the move as a "big moment for our country" and a major step toward protecting young people online.
Speaking at a press conference on Monday, Starmer confirmed that the government will introduce new legislation aimed at preventing under-16s from accessing major social media platforms. The ban is expected to come into force around spring 2027 following the implementation of age-verification and enforcement measures.
"Today is a big moment for our country. This is a big step, a real change for our children and our future," Starmer said while unveiling the policy.
The Prime Minister defended the decision, arguing that social media has become increasingly harmful to young people's mental health and safety. He cited concerns over exposure to harmful content, online predators, and the negative impact of excessive social media use on children's wellbeing.
Starmer acknowledged that some teenagers may attempt to bypass the restrictions using tools such as VPNs, but insisted that the government had learned from international examples, including Australia's own social media restrictions, and believes the ban can be effectively enforced.
"We're not going to start taking action against 13, 14 or 15-year-olds who try to get around the rules," he said, stressing that enforcement efforts would focus on platforms rather than children themselves.
The policy will also include stricter controls on live streaming, direct messaging from strangers, and gaming-related online services used by minors. Starmer described the measures as "world-leading" protections for young people.
Addressing concerns about free speech, the Prime Minister argued that child protection must come first.
"I'm a great advocate of free speech, but sending sexually explicit pictures to and from children isn't free speech — it's basic protection," he said.
The announcement follows months of consultation with campaigners, experts, and families affected by online harm. Starmer revealed that discussions with grieving parents helped shape his decision, saying he had listened carefully to those who had lost children after harmful experiences linked to social media.
The move has already attracted international attention ahead of the G7 summit. Starmer confirmed he had spoken with US President Donald Trump and said other world leaders were closely watching the UK's approach, which could become a model for similar policies elsewhere.
Supporters of the ban have welcomed the decision as a necessary safeguard for children, while critics have raised concerns about enforcement challenges and the potential impact on young people's access to online communities and information.
The legislation is expected to be introduced in Parliament later this year.
