British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced a social media ban for children younger than 16.
Speaking to the country on Monday, Starmer said, “Today is a big day for our country.
“This is a big step. Real change for our children and our future.
“I am not prepared to compromise on the safety and happiness of our children, and that is why this ban must happen, and why this ban will happen.”
Starmer added that “social media is making our children unhappy,” and that it is “designed to be addictive.”
The ban will apply to Snapchat, TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook and X. The mandates will be covered by new legislation intended to come into effect by December 2026, and apply from 2027.
@bbcnews The measures are part of the UK government’s plans to protect young people from harm online and address unhealthy late-night scrolling on phones. #SocialMedia #SocialMediaBan #UKPolitics #BreakingNews #BBCNews ♬ original sound – BBC News
Britain set to follow Australia’s social media ban for under 16s
Starmer has previously shared that he’s been heavily influenced by Australia’s 2025 ban, and the evidence Prime Minister Anthony Albanese used to make his decision.
Albanese congratulated Starmer on X after the announcement: “Social media giants operate across borders. By standing together, we can do more to hold them accountable and keep children safe online.”
Congratulations on taking this important step, Prime Minister @Keir_Starmer.
Social media giants operate across borders. By standing together, we can do more to hold them accountable and keep children safe online. https://t.co/iLbDSuMYLe
— Anthony Albanese (@AlboMP) June 15, 2026
Starmer’s move follows countries such as Canada and France, who are applying pressure to major platforms to introduce age restrictions and take more responsibility for content.
Top image: Keir Starmer announces social media ban. Image: TikTok