UK Government Moves to Protect Children as Lords Back Social Media Ban for Under-16s
The UK is considering sweeping new rules to protect children online, with MPs, public figures, and advocacy groups debating whether social media should be off-limits for under-16s.
On Wednesday evening, the House of Lords voted in favor of a ban similar to the one recently introduced in Australia, sending a clear signal that children’s protection is a growing priority. The decision puts pressure on the UK government to act, though officials have indicated they may vote against the measure while consultations continue.
The Department of Science, Innovation and Technology is running its own investigation into a potential ban, consulting parents, children, and civil society groups to determine how effective it would be in keeping young people safe. Officials are also considering stricter age checks for social media platforms and exploring limits on features that encourage extended screen time or addictive behavior.
Supporters of the ban argue that social media exposes children to risks including cyberbullying, online grooming, harmful content, and excessive pressure on mental health. From a child-rights perspective, the move reflects the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, which emphasizes the right to protection from harmful materials and environments.
Critics, however, warn that outright bans could limit children’s ability to engage socially online, reduce digital literacy, or drive them toward unmonitored platforms. The government plans to review all input from its consultation before making a final decision, with results expected this summer.
Newsround has reached out to the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology to clarify how children themselves will be consulted in the process.
For children, parents, and educators, the debate highlights a critical question: how can the digital world be safe, while still allowing young people to learn, communicate, and express themselves online?
With MPs set to vote in the coming months, the UK is at a crossroads in balancing children’s right to protection, access to information, and safe participation in the digital world.
Source of image: Getty Imagess
