The UK government has confirmed it will examine the introduction of overnight curfews for teenagers as part of its comprehensive social media ban announced today, June 15. This measure targets 16 and 17-year-olds, with further details expected in July.
Blanket Ban for Under-16s
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced a blanket ban on social media for all children under 16, describing it as a "big moment for our country." The government intends to pass the legislation before Christmas 2026, with the law coming into effect around spring 2027. The ban will cover platforms like Snapchat, TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and X, but messaging services such as WhatsApp and Signal will be exempt.
Additional Restrictions
AI 'romantic companion' chatbots designed for sexual roleplay will require users to be at least 18. Similar intimate features will be restricted for under-18s on other AI chatbots. The government also announced world-leading action on gaming and live streaming platforms to prevent strangers from contacting children.
Sir Keir stated, "This is not something I do lightly... social media is making children unhappy." He cited risks such as bullying, mental health harm, and addictive features like infinite scrolling. The announcement follows a public consultation that received 116,000 responses, with 83% of parents supporting a minimum age of 16.
The move may face backlash from the US administration, which warned against a blanket ban, preferring narrowly targeted requirements.
