Labour to unveil strict social media restrictions for children ahead of Makerfield byelection

The UK Labour government is poised to announce stringent new regulations governing children’s access to social media within weeks, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer committing to a rapid legislative timeline. The announcement is expected to precede the Makerfield byelection next month, following the conclusion of a public consultation that attracted more than 81,000 respondents. Starmer stated he would act “very, very quickly” to address concerns over online harms, despite ongoing disagreements among campaigners and experts regarding the most effective regulatory approach.

Proposed measures include the implementation of age limits and restrictions on design features deemed potentially addictive, such as infinite scrolling and autoplay functions. These rules could come into force by the end of the year, affecting major platforms including Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, gaming services like Roblox, and messaging apps like Snap. The government has utilised an artificial intelligence system called Consult, alongside an expert panel led by an eminent paediatrician, to analyse the consultation responses.

Technology Secretary Liz Kendall emphasised the government’s resolve, stating, “No one’s going to stop me from doing what I think is right.” This stance comes as former health secretary Wes Streeting accused legislators of being “asleep at the wheel” on social media harms, comparing the technology to smoking. Starmer’s spokesperson denied allegations of delay, though internal government concerns persist regarding potential legal challenges if the consultation process is not meticulously followed.

Online Safety Minister Kanishka Narayan is currently in Australia to investigate the efficacy of its under-16 social media ban, which has been in operation for nearly six months. However, the Australian model faces opposition domestically. The National Association of Head Teachers and various child protection groups have rejected a blanket ban, warning it may create a false sense of safety and push children toward less-regulated online spaces. Justine Roberts, founder of Mumsnet, called for a delay on access for under-16s, backed by robust age assurance and sanctions for non-compliant platforms.

The government is also engaging directly with technology firms. Meta has urged ministers not to alter algorithms, arguing they help direct users to relevant content, and suggested that age restrictions be enforced through device operating systems rather than on an app-by-app basis. Meanwhile, Starmer has met with families affected by social media harms, including Ian Russell, whose daughter Molly Russell died in 2017, and Esther Ghey, whose daughter Brianna was murdered in 2023. Their differing views on the appropriate regulatory response highlight the complexity of the policy landscape.