British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is preparing to unveil plans aimed at limiting children’s access to harmful social media platforms, as the government comes under increasing pressure to strengthen online safety protections for young people.
According to a report by The Times, Starmer is considering measures that would prevent under-16s from accessing certain high-risk social media platforms while allowing them to use services considered safer for children and teenagers.
The proposal follows months of growing concern over the impact of social media on young people’s mental health, online safety and exposure to harmful content.
The British leader is said to have been influenced by discussions with bereaved parents as well as developments in Australia, which introduced a nationwide ban on social media access for under-16s last year.
A source at Downing Street said the prime minister was prepared to challenge major technology companies if necessary to better protect children online.
While reports suggest a full ban is being explored, sources familiar with the matter indicated that an immediate nationwide prohibition is unlikely to be announced this week. Instead, the government could initially focus on measures designed to prevent children from creating sexualised images online that are later used for blackmail and sextortion.
The debate comes as Britain reviews a range of options to improve online safety for minors. Proposals under consideration include social media curfews, daily time limits, and restrictions on platform features designed to keep users engaged for extended periods.
Several European countries are also examining tougher rules. France, Denmark and Poland are considering tighter controls, while Greece has announced plans to block social media access for children under 15 beginning in 2027.
Starmer is expected to use a speech later Monday to outline how the government believes technology can deliver positive benefits while reducing the risks facing young people online.
Britain already has one of the world’s toughest online safety frameworks, requiring companies such as Meta to take steps to shield children from illegal and harmful content.
However, experts remain divided over whether outright bans are the best solution. Critics argue that restrictions could prove difficult to enforce and may push young users toward unregulated platforms, while supporters say stronger safeguards are necessary to protect children’s wellbeing in an increasingly digital world.
