The UK government has confirmed it will introduce some form of social media restrictions for children under 16, even if a full ban is not imposed. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson told the BBC that ministers must ensure any measures are effective before implementation.
Speaking after junior education minister Olivia Bailey stated the government would "impose some form of age or functionality restrictions" regardless of the consultation outcome, Phillipson emphasized the need for careful action. The government is currently consulting on an outright ban, among other options, to protect teenagers from addictive and harmful content.
Campaigners have pushed for an Australia-style ban, but questions remain about its effectiveness. The Children's Wellbeing and Schools Bill, currently passing through Parliament, would give ministers the power to introduce sweeping restrictions. Peers in the House of Lords have repeatedly called for an immediate ban, but the government has pushed back, proposing amendments that allow for future action rather than an instant prohibition.
Bailey told the Commons that the status quo cannot continue, and the government is focused on tackling addictive features, harmful algorithm-driven content, and other design elements. An outright ban remains possible but is not guaranteed.
Specific restrictions under consideration include curfews, age verification, and limiting access to AI chatbots. The consultation, which ends on 26 May, will also explore mechanisms like endless scrolling and content refresh features, which were highlighted in a recent US social media addiction trial.
The government aims to act swiftly after the consultation, with a progress report due within three months of the Bill receiving royal assent. Technology Secretary Liz Kendall has indicated a desire to implement regulations before the end of the year, though an extension of up to six months is possible in exceptional circumstances.
Opposition figures have reacted differently: Shadow education secretary Laura Trott welcomed the commitment as a "huge step forward," while Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey accused the government of "ducking" the issue and urged faster action.
Campaigners, including bereaved parents, have expressed cautious optimism. Ellen Roome, whose son died in a dangerous online challenge, said she was "so pleased" the government is acting. Andy Burrows of the Molly Rose Foundation emphasized the need for measures that go beyond a "blanket ban" to ensure genuine safety.