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Politics
Jun 14, 2026
Analyzed by GPT OSS 120B

Starmer to announce “Australia plus” ban on social media for under‑16s

AI Summary
Keir Starmer will unveil an "Australia plus" ban that blocks under‑16s from major social‑media platforms such as TikTok, Instagram and X, with additional night‑time and AI‑chat restrictions for 16‑18‑year‑olds. The move follows strong parental support in a government consultation and mirrors Australia’s existing restrictions.

Keir Starmer is set to announce a ban on under‑16s from major social‑media platforms, modelled on Australia’s approach, alongside additional limits for 16‑18‑year‑olds.

“Australia plus” framework to block under‑16s from TikTok, Instagram and X

The government will prohibit users under 16 from accessing high‑risk apps such as TikTok, Instagram and X. Other online products not covered by the ban, like gaming apps, will have features such as stranger‑chat removed. For 16‑18‑year‑olds, scrolling after 8.30 pm will be blocked and romantic or sexual AI chatbots will be inaccessible.

Public consultation numbers show overwhelming parental support

  • 9 out of 10 parents backed a minimum age of 16.
  • 88 % said fewer children would see harmful content.
  • Nearly two‑thirds of young respondents felt the restrictions would make them safer online.

Potential shift in UK digital policy and industry response

Sources say the ban aims to protect teenagers from addictive infinite scrolling and contact with strangers. The Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Act already gives ministers limited powers, but new legislation may be required to enforce the measures. The approach mirrors Australia’s ban on ten major platforms, suggesting a similar range of apps could be targeted in the UK.

What the next steps could mean for regulators and tech firms

Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy warned the ban is not a “silver bullet” but highlighted Australia’s experience as evidence of its role. If enacted, platforms will need to redesign age‑verification systems and adjust feature availability, while regulators will have to monitor compliance and possibly expand powers under forthcoming legislation.