The United Kingdom will not be swayed by the White House's opposition to a proposed social media ban for children under 16, according to Technology Secretary Liz Kendall. Speaking on Sky News, Kendall emphasized that she is more concerned with the views of British parents, the majority of whom support such a ban.
White House Opposition
The White House recently submitted a response to a UK government consultation on protecting children online, arguing against what it called "prescribed one-size-fits-all government restrictions." The US response stated that parents should be the primary decision-makers regarding their children's online activities, and that platform parental controls are preferable to a blanket ban. This intervention has set up a potential point of contention between the US and the UK, as the so-called special relationship faces increasing strain.
Kendall's Response
Kendall acknowledged the US submission but made it clear that the UK government will make its own decisions. "I'll read that submission carefully, but I'm much more bothered about the parents who have replied to the consultation, you know, nine out of ten of whom want to see social media banned for under 16," she said. She added: "I will take the decision for British families and British children and young people, and I won't be swayed in any way, shape or form from doing what I believe is right for children and families in this country."
Upcoming Announcement
Kendall indicated that the government will announce its decision soon, likely before the summer. The announcement will cover not only a potential ban but also other measures such as addressing doom scrolling, overnight curfews, stranger pairing in games, and AI chatbots. The government has resisted announcing a ban so far, despite the House of Lords twice forcing a vote on the matter. Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Kendall have stated that proposals will be based on the findings of a consultation that closed earlier this month.
Support and Criticism
Supporters of the ban argue that social media exposes children to dangerous content and online predators. However, critics contend that such a ban would be ineffective, pointing to Australia's experience where many children have circumvented the restrictions and continue to access platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat.
Broader Online Safety Measures
On Monday, Starmer gave tech companies like Apple and Google a three-month deadline to implement software preventing children from taking, sending, or sharing nude photos. Kendall emphasized the government's broader strategy: "I think we are pretty much saying if you're not going to do this, we're going to legislate. We have taken a whole range of action to try and protect women and girls and young kids online through our strategy on violence against women and girls. I've already banned nudification apps, made cyber flashing and other things a priority offense. But there's much more we can do."
