Prime Minister Keir Starmer tells tech bosses to step up child protection, hinting at possible access restrictions as pressure for a ban grows.
LONDON: Prime Minister Keir Starmer has warned social media companies they must urgently improve child safety online. He summoned senior tech executives to Downing Street, hinting that access restrictions for children could be necessary.
Starmer told the bosses from X, TikTok, Meta, and Snap that the current situation is untenable. “They must change because right now social media is putting our children at risk,” he stated.
The Prime Minister emphasised that protecting children is the priority, even if it means limiting access. “In a world in which children are protected, even if that means access is restricted, that is preferable to a world where harm is the price of participation,” he added.
The meeting comes amid growing political and public pressure for a ban on under-16s using social media platforms. Starmer said he looked forward to working with the companies on new safeguarding measures but insisted change is non-negotiable.
“I do think this can be done. I think the question is not whether it is done, the question is how it is done,” he told the industry leaders.
The government is actively considering restrictions, with ministers looking at an Australia-style ban. Australia became the first nation to prohibit under-16s from using major platforms last December.
Greece has since announced a ban for under-15s, and an EU expert group is starting work on bloc-wide recommendations. Starmer has not ruled out a ban but is awaiting the outcome of a public consultation closing on May 26.
He said the meeting was about ensuring companies “step up and take responsibility.” The Prime Minister warned of stark consequences for failing to act, stating society owes it to parents and the next generation.
Parliament is currently in a stand-off over the issue. The House of Lords has twice voted in favour of prohibiting social media for under-16s.
The elected House of Commons, where Starmer’s Labour party holds a large majority, has rejected the proposal twice. This piles political pressure on the government to clarify its stance and potential legislative action.
