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Under-16 social media ban announced by UK government

Under-16 social media ban announced by UK government
The Verge Monday 15 June 2026, 08:19 UTC By Dominic Preston 1 min read
Key Points

The UK is the latest country to follow Australia in implementing a total social media ban for children under 16, Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced. The ban, which could take effect from early next year, will be joined by wider measures that will also prevent children from talking to strangers in online games, livestreaming, or using sexual or romantic chatbots. "Do we truly believe that social media creates a happy environment for our children?

The UK is the latest country to follow Australia in implementing a total social media ban for children under 16, Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced. The ban, which could take effect from early next year, will be joined by wider measures that will also prevent children from talking to strangers in online games, livestreaming, or using sexual or romantic chatbots.

"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?" Starmer asked during a press conference announcing the policy. "I don't think I even need to answer those questions, do I?"

" …

Read the full story at The Verge.

[Image text:] DRIVER LICENSE DL12345678 EXP03/07/2018 ADD 03/22/2004 SEX HAT
UK (LOCATION) Australia (LOCATION) Keir Starmer (PERSON) Starmer (PERSON)
Originally published by The Verge Read original →

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