Sir Keir Starmer has announced that under-16s will be banned from social media, calling it a "big moment for our country." The Prime Minister revealed that Britain will follow Australia in prohibiting teenagers from using platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat. He made the announcement during a Downing Street press conference, outlining sweeping reforms to protect children online.
Concerns over mental health
Sir Keir warned that social media is negatively impacting children's happiness and mental health. He stated that a full ban is the right choice, acknowledging that the decision is not cost-free but necessary.
"This is not something I do lightly, and I will not present it as cost-free, as if social media has brought no benefits to young people, because clearly that is wrong," he said. "But government is always about choices, and it's clear to me that a full ban is the right choice."
Personal perspective
The Prime Minister shared his personal view as a parent, emphasizing the fears many parents have. "All I've ever wanted for my own children, hand on heart, is for them to be happy and for them to be safe, and I think that's what any parent wants," he said. "But I ask the question now, 'do we truly believe that social media creates a happy environment for our children?' Do we truly believe that it's a place where they can feel safe? I don't think I even need to answer those questions, do I?"
Sir Keir concluded, "Every parent can see it with their own eyes. Social media is making children unhappy."
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