- The UK government is expected to avoid a complete ban on social media for under-16s after a recent consultation on the issue concluded with over 81,000 responses.
- Instead of an outright ban, ministers are expected to focus on prohibiting addictive features for under-16s, such as infinite scrolling, autoplay, and location sharing, a move supported by tech industry insiders.
- This approach contrasts with Australia's policy of a full ban for under-16s, which research indicates has not prevented the majority of young people from still using social media platforms.
- The prime minister is anticipated to unveil plans for social media regulation in the coming weeks, amidst calls from figures like Wes Streeting for a complete ban, likening social media to tobacco.
- Bereaved parents, whose children's deaths were linked to social media, met with Keir Starmer, urging immediate action within weeks for a ban on under-16s' social media use and the implementation of phone-free policies in schools.
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