British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced plans to ban children under the age of 16 from accessing major social media platforms, as part of a broader effort to strengthen online safety measures for young people.
Speaking on Monday, Starmer said the proposed restrictions would also extend to gaming and livestreaming services. While he did not specify which platforms would be affected, he said the new rules are expected to take effect in the early part of next year.
The proposal is part of the UK government's push to address concerns about the impact of digital platforms on children's well-being and exposure to harmful online content.
"It is clear to me a full ban is the right choice," Starmer said while unveiling the plans. He acknowledged that implementing such restrictions would be challenging but argued that governments have a responsibility to act in the interests of children.
"It would not be easy," he said, adding that policymakers must be prepared to challenge the influence of large technology companies when necessary.
Starmer also stated that he intends to proceed with the proposal even if major tech firms oppose the move. "I am not prepared to compromise on the safety and happiness of our children," he said.
Describing online safety as one of the defining issues facing modern societies, the prime minister said the debate ultimately comes down to whether governments prioritize the interests of families or maintain what he called a status quo that is failing to adequately protect young users.
Sources: Hindustan Times
