The UK government has launched a significant new push to protect children from online harms, with proposals that could see a social media ban for under-16s, restrictions on addictive app designs, and immediate, tougher inspections of mobile phone use in schools.
Pressure Mounts for Under-16 Social Media Ban
Prime Minister Keir Starmer is facing growing calls to implement a ban on social media access for children under the age of 16. This pressure intensified after the Conservative party pledged a similar ban and following Australia's decision to introduce one last month. More than 60 Labour MPs have urged the PM to follow Australia's lead, warning that "Britain risks being left behind."
The issue has been powerfully highlighted by bereaved parents. Esther Ghey, mother of murdered teenager Brianna Ghey, is among those calling for the ban. In a letter to party leaders, she described her daughter's "social media addiction" and desire to be "TikTok famous," which she said placed Brianna in constant fear and exacerbated mental health struggles.
Major Consultation on Online Harms Launched
Ministers have announced a wide-ranging consultation to gather evidence on the best solutions. This will examine not only an age-based social media ban but also other potential measures. These include enforcing phone curfews and restricting addictive design features commonly used by tech platforms.
Such features include 'streaks', which reward consecutive daily interactions, and 'infinite scrolling', a design pattern that automatically loads new content to keep users engaged. The consultation will also consider raising the digital age of consent from 13, which is the current threshold for most social media accounts. The government is expected to respond to the findings in the summer.
Additional plans include developing official screen time guidance for parents of children aged five to 16, building on updated advice for under-fives due in April. The government will also explore ways to introduce simpler parental controls on apps.
Immediate Crackdown on Phones in Schools
Alongside the longer-term consultation, the government has ordered an immediate tightening of school inspections regarding mobile phones. Ofsted has been instructed to scrutinise phone policies during every inspection, ensuring pupils cannot access their devices during lessons, breaks, lunchtimes, or between classes.
This action builds upon the existing Online Safety Act, which mandates tech companies to moderate harmful algorithms, remove dangerous content swiftly, and implement robust age verification.
Divided Opinions on a Blanket Ban
While many support stricter measures, significant warnings have been raised about the potential pitfalls of an outright ban. Ian Russell, whose 14-year-old daughter Molly took her own life after viewing harmful content online, opposes a "blunt" ban. He fears it could drive vulnerable children towards darker, unregulated corners of the internet, such as certain gaming platforms or forums.
He cited early reports from Australia suggesting that one in ten teens seeking mental health support had mentioned the new social media ban as a contributing issue. Mr. Russell has joined with over 40 charities and experts to warn that blanket bans fail to address the core failures of tech companies and governments.
At a press conference on Monday 19th January 2026, PM Starmer did not commit to a ban but stated the government was "looking at a range of options" and that "no options are off the table." Technology Secretary Liz Kendall emphasised the government's determination to ensure technology enriches, rather than harms, children's lives.
