The United Kingdom’s digital landscape may soon undergo significant changes as Prime Minister Keir Starmer indicated a willingness to explore restrictions on social media access for children under 16. During a press conference on 15 January 2026, Starmer emphasized that “all options” are being considered, including a potential ban similar to that recently enacted in Australia. This move comes in response to growing public concern, with over 100,000 letters sent to local Members of Parliament advocating for “reasonable, age-appropriate boundaries” surrounding smartphone use among children.
The push for stricter regulations gained momentum following an email campaign by the organization Smartphone Free Childhood, which urged officials to take action regarding children’s social media usage. Starmer’s comments reflect a shift in the government’s approach to online child safety as he acknowledged the need to protect young users from the potential harms of social media.
Learning from Australia’s Experience
The Prime Minister pointed to Australia as a model for potential regulations. He stated, “We’re looking at what’s happening in Australia, but all options are on the table in relation to what further protections we can put in place.” Australia’s recent legislation effectively bars children under 16 from accessing major social media platforms, including Instagram, TikTok, and X. The ban, enacted in December, aimed to address rising concerns about the adverse effects of unregulated online environments on children. Following its implementation, Australian authorities reported disconnecting 4.7 million accounts believed to belong to minors.
In Australia, Anika Wells, the Communications Minister, remarked that the ban would allow parents to feel confident their children could enjoy a screen-free childhood. The UK government appears to be taking similar sentiments into account as discussions about the impact of social media on children escalate among parents, educators, and policymakers.
Changing Attitudes Towards Online Safety
Initially, Starmer expressed skepticism about imposing stringent restrictions on social media. However, his recent comments suggest a notable shift towards considering more robust regulations to safeguard children. He reiterated his concern regarding young children’s excessive screen time, stating, “Children are turning up at school aged four to reception, having spent far too much time on screen.”
The growing dialogue around the dangers of social media has led many to question the adequacy of existing measures. As the UK government weighs its options, it is clear that the conversation about child protection in the digital realm is gaining urgency. Other countries are also beginning to explore similar regulations, as the global community observes the implications of Australia’s legislative actions.
As the UK contemplates its next steps in addressing social media access for minors, the potential for a more comprehensive strategy to protect young users appears increasingly likely. The outcome of these discussions will not only shape the future of social media policy in the UK but may also influence international standards regarding online safety for children.
