Full list of apps you can't use as social media ban hits all under 16s in UK
In a 'big moment for our country', Sir Keir Starmer has just announced that children under age 16 will be banned from social media.
The Prime Minister announced this new technology restriction during a press conference as Downing Street as he warned of the impact social media was having on children's happiness and mental health.
He said he wouldn't compromise on their 'safety and happiness' as he is confident the ban can be effective but acknowledged some kids would find their way around it.
But, the PM says it's 'clear' to him that 'a full ban is the right choice'. This ban is set to come into force 'in the early part of next year'.
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Starmer said this morning (15 June): “Every parent can see it with their own eyes. Social media is making children unhappy."
He continued: "It's making it easier for bullies to harass and abuse them, and it could even be harming their mental health.
“Other children exposing them to content that is dangerous, because that's what grabs the attention.
“It's designed to be addictive, of course it is. Features like the infinite scroll, they're designed to lock you in for hours.
“If nothing else, there's an opportunity cost to that. It stops children doing their homework, reading, playing with their friends outside, going to bed at decent hour.
“Now may not sound like much, but these are the activities that help a child develop into an adult.”
Reported to mirror the ban previously put in place in Australia, it's believed this change in the UK will include the following social media:
- TikTok
- Instagram Threads
- X
- YouTube
- Snapchat
- Twitch
- Kick
Topics: Keir Starmer, Politics, Social Media, UK News, Technology
Jess Battison