LONDON (AP) — Britain plans to introduce legislation by December to restrict children’s access to social media, with implementation targeted for spring next year. Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the bill would take “world‑leading action” to protect young people online, including new rules for gaming and live‑streaming platforms that allow interaction between minors and strangers.
Officials said measures under review include overnight curfews for users under 18 and restrictions on features such as infinite scrolling. The proposals follow a government led consultation with teenagers, who tested time‑limit tools and app restrictions. Further details are expected in July.
Starmer pointed to international developments, citing Australia’s decision last year to ban social media access for users under 16. He argued that stronger safeguards are needed to prevent children from engaging with unknown adults online, comparing the issue to offline safety norms where such interactions would not ordinarily be permitted.
Industry reaction has been cautious. A YouTube spokesperson warned that blanket bans could push children toward “less safe services.” Technology companies have long argued that parental controls and education are more effective than outright restrictions, while child safety advocates say stronger regulation is necessary to address risks of exploitation and harmful content.
The UK’s proposal comes amid growing global debate over how governments should regulate digital platforms. Countries across Europe and Asia are weighing stricter rules on social media use by minors, reflecting concerns about mental health, privacy, and exposure to harmful material. Analysts say Britain’s legislation could set a precedent for other nations considering similar measures, especially given its emphasis on curfews and platform design features.
For families, schools, and technology firms, the proposed law signals a shift toward tighter oversight of online spaces. Whether the measures succeed will depend on enforcement and cooperation from platforms. The outcome will be closely watched internationally as governments grapple with balancing digital freedom and child protection in an increasingly connected world, where online safety is becoming a central policy issue.
