Starmer Plans Social Media Access Restrictions for Children Amidst Cross-Party Pressure

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is expected to announce new measures restricting children's access to social media platforms in the coming days. The policy, a departure from Starmer's previous stance, will be detailed in a forthcoming speech.

Government ministers have recently explored several options, including a comprehensive ban for under-16s, similar to legislation introduced in Australia. Discussions have also included potential exemptions for social media elements deemed less detrimental to young users.

Starmer's administration launched a public consultation on the issue in March, bowing to significant pressure from the Conservative Party, the Liberal Democrats, and numerous Labour Members of Parliament. Following the consultation's closure last month, Sir Keir committed to implementing "decisive" measures.