UK’s Starmer Pledges Sweeping Reforms Aimed at Protecting Children on Social Media

British prime minister said proposals could happen in ‘months not weeks’ as his government considers bans on social media, VPNs, and AI chatbots for under-16s.

British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer speaks to residents during a visit to a community hub at St Mary’s Church in Putney, south-west London on Feb. 16, 2025. Carlos Jasso/PA

UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has announced a raft of new proposals aimed at protecting young people from social media addiction within “months not years,” including a proposal for an Australian-style ban for under-16s.

Next month, his Labour government will launch a three-month consultation on a proposed social media ban and other measures which will go beyond current powers covered by the Online Safety Act.