BBC Breakfast presenters Jon Kay and Sally Nugent returned to the Salford studio on Monday to bring viewers the most pressing stories from across the UK and beyond. During the show, they welcomed a group of parents who had tragically lost their children due to social media's damaging effects. The parents appeared visibly upset and 'very emotional' as they awaited the Prime Minister's statement regarding a social media ban.
Growing tearful on live television, Ellen Roome remarked: 'I think all of us feel a bit wobbly,' while being comforted by two fellow grieving mothers. The programme then switched to Downing Street, where Keir Starmer began his national address.
A 'breaking news' banner quickly flashed across the screen, as Starmer declared: 'Today is a big moment for our country. This is a big step. Real change for our children and our future, because today, I can announce that the government will ban access to social media for all children under the age of 16,' prompting thunderous applause throughout the room.
The Prime Minister continued: '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. But government is always about choices, and it's clear to me that a full ban is the right choice. I come to it as a parent myself, I know exactly the fears that we all feel when we are thinking about this issue.'
Before proceeding to questions, Keir Starmer declared: 'I want this message to be heard loud and clear. I am not prepared to compromise on the safety and happiness of our children, and that is why this ban must happen, and why this ban will happen.' He acknowledged that 'it won't be easy' and that certain tech firms want the public to believe circumstances are 'unchangeable'. Starmer subsequently confirmed that powers have been secured to enable the government to 'move at speed'.
'We hope to pass regulation before Christmas,' he revealed, explaining that the ban would therefore take effect early next year. Returning to the studio, Sally and Jon spoke with the group of parents, who appeared visibly moved after hearing the announcement.
Ellen responded: 'Fantastic. To actually hear him step up and do this was phenomenal. I thought it was a very good speech, it was very powerful. The devil's going to be in the detail of how this actually happens, but I think, yeah, well done. Thank you.' Fellow parent Mariano Janin remarked: 'Emotional, speechless. I think it's a change in the right direction. It will not be easy, but it will be possible.'
BBC Breakfast airs daily on BBC One at 6am.
