“Today is a big moment for our country”: Keir Starmer announces social media ban for children under 16 in UK

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has confirmed that the government will introduce a ban preventing children under the age of 16 from accessing social media platforms, describing the move as a “big moment” for the country and a significant step toward safeguarding young people online.

Starmer said the decision represents a major change aimed at protecting children from the growing influence of social media and creating a safer digital environment for future generations.

“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 government’s plans.

The Prime Minister expressed confidence that the measure would receive strong support from parents across the UK. According to Starmer, many families have become increasingly concerned about the impact of social media on children’s mental health, wellbeing, and overall development.

“I think most parents will welcome this action,” he said. “They will welcome a clear and decisive choice, and they will welcome a government that stands by them, supports them to do the best for their children, and fights for their happiness and safety against the most powerful companies in the world.”

Starmer also reflected on his own childhood, arguing that while every generation faces challenges, today’s teenagers are dealing with unprecedented pressures created by digital platforms and constant online exposure.

“I feel for this generation,” he said. “The early 1970s weren’t always a picnic, but we didn’t have to deal with anything like this—a technology that intrudes into every corner of life, is almost impossible to escape, and records every mistake.”

He added that navigating adolescence in the age of social media presents unique difficulties, with young people facing continuous scrutiny and online pressures alongside the normal challenges of growing up.