Key Highlights
- Sir Keir Starmer is considering a ban on social media for under-16s in the UK.
- The UK Government says it will closely monitor Australia’s policy, which banned millions of youths from accessing online platforms.
- Downing Street maintains no current plans to introduce a blanket ban but will consider similar legislation if effective.
Social Media Ban: Keir Starmer Considers Following Australia’s Lead
In light of Australia’s groundbreaking move, UK Attorney General Sir Keir Starmer is re-evaluating the potential for a ban on social media use by under-16s in the United Kingdom. This decision comes as the Government asserts that “nothing is off the table” when it comes to safeguarding children online.
Earlier this month, Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced an unprecedented ban on multiple online platforms for millions of young Australians aged 15 and under. This world-first policy aims to protect children from exposure to harmful content and cyberbullying.
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, approximately five million youths are now restricted from accessing sites including Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok.
Downing Street has been closely monitoring how this policy works in Australia. Sir Keir, who previously expressed reservations about such a ban, is now looking into its effectiveness. Sources indicate that talks have been held between Sir Keir and Liz Kendall, the Technology Secretary, to discuss implementing similar legislation if the Australian scheme proves successful.
Government’s Approach: Monitoring and Evidence-Based Decisions
The UK Government remains cautious about a blanket ban, emphasizing the importance of protecting children while allowing them safe access to the digital world. A spokesperson from the Department for Digital Culture Media & Sport (DCMS) told LBC that “we understand parents’ concerns about the impact of social media on children.” The government has already taken some of the most robust steps globally to ensure online content is age-appropriate.
However, while there are no current plans to introduce a ban, Downing Street acknowledges the need for flexibility. “The Government is closely monitoring Australia’s approach,” the spokesperson added. “When it comes to children’s safety, nothing is off the table, but any action must be based on robust evidence.”
Health Secretary Wes Streeting Supports Cautious Approach
Health Secretary Wes Streeting also weighed in, expressing support for a cautious approach. “I think about how difficult it was when I was a teenager to sneak into a 15 or 18 film at the cinema,” he told The Observer. “Nowadays, kids are able to access the most extreme content.” Streeting warned that social media has increasingly become “anti-social,” emphasizing the need for careful consideration before implementing any sweeping changes.
While Australia’s move is seen as a step in the right direction, the UK Government and its officials remain committed to finding balanced solutions. The ongoing evaluation of the Australian policy will play a crucial role in shaping future decisions regarding online safety measures for young people in the United Kingdom.
For now, the focus remains on robust age-appropriate content guidelines and continued monitoring of emerging trends in digital health and safety practices.
