UK government commits to social media age restrictions for under-16s

Some form of age or functionality restriction on social media for under-16s will be imposed, the education minister has said. Olivia Bailey gave an update on the government's plans to the Commons on Monday, after the House of Lords supported a ban for the fourth time. But MPs have already overturned the Lords' proposed social media ban three times, saying a government consultation on the matter needs to conclude first. Speaking to the Commons, Ms Bailey said ministers had "listened carefully to the concerns raised across both Houses about the importance of the government acting swiftly once the consultation has concluded". She added: "The government has said repeatedly that it is a question of how we act, not if, but to put it beyond any doubt, we are playing a clear statutory requirement that the secretary of state must, rather than may, act following the consultation. This brings forward regulations without pre-empting the consultation's outcomes and does not ignore the tens of thousands of parents and children who have already engaged with us." The education minister then said that "the status quo cannot continue" and added: "We are clear that under any outcome, we will impose some form of age or functionality restrictions for children under 16. I can also confirm that consideration of restrictions such as curfews will be in addition, not instead of this." The House of Lords voted 316 to 165 in favour of Conservative former minister Lord Nash's amendment to the Children's Wellbeing and Schools Bill, which would outright ban social media for those under 16 years old. Shadow education secretary Laura Trott said the vote had helped secure a "commitment" from the government to introduce an age restriction, describing it as a "huge step forward in keeping children safe". The Conservatives have been calling for a ban for months. It would see the UK follow in the footsteps of Australia, while other countries in Europe – including France and Spain – consider similar restrictions. Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds said ministers will "act relatively quickly" once the government's consultation concludes in a few weeks, with a decision on a ban expected before the end of the year.