Meta, YouTube, and Snapchat have criticised the UK government's plan to ban social media for under-16s, warning it could drive teenagers towards more harmful platforms. The ban, announced by Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Monday, would prevent younger teenagers from using major services like Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat.
A Meta spokesperson said bans risk isolating teens from online communities and pushing them to unregulated alternatives without built-in protections. YouTube argued that blanket bans push children away from curated, supervised experiences towards anonymous, less-safe services. Snapchat added that an outright ban disconnects teens from private messaging with friends and family, potentially pushing them to less safe platforms.
Starmer announced the ban at a Downing Street press conference, despite previously expressing scepticism. He stated that social media is making children unhappy, facilitating bullying, and harming mental health. The plan goes further than Australia's ban, including restrictions on gaming apps and romantic chatbots for under-18s.
The Prime Minister acknowledged the ban is not cost-free but insisted it is the right choice, comparing it to alcohol sales restrictions. He said the law will shape social values and conversations between parents and children. The announcement was welcomed by campaigners, including bereaved parents who attribute their children's deaths to social media.
