UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is taking on major technology companies, announcing a ban on children under 16 from using social media platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram.

International Push to Limit Children’s Access

The restrictions, expected to take effect early next year, are part of a growing international push to limit children’s access to social media. Australia, Canada, Brazil, and Indonesia have introduced or proposed similar age-based restrictions.

Starmer said the government has a responsibility to act, citing concerns about the impact of social media on children’s mental health and well-being. The decision follows a public consultation that drew 116,000 responses, with over 90% of respondents supporting an under-16 ban.

The move has been met with resistance from technology companies, with a YouTube spokesperson warning that a blanket social media restriction could push kids towards less-safe services. The US Embassy in London also expressed concern about the potential impact on free speech protections.

Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.