More flexible restrictions could be in store for children in the UK
MPs rejected an Australian-style ban on social media for under-16s, with the government instead announcing a consultation period without a commitment to a full ban.
Education minister Olivia Bailey urged MPs to oppose an outright restriction to allow for more flexible changes, this week.
“Many parents and campaign groups have called for an outright ban on social media for under-16s,” she said.
“Others, including children’s charities, have warned that a blanket ban could drive children towards less regulated corners of the internet or leave teenagers unprepared when they do come online.”
Following the vote, the government launched a consultation, looking into whether social media platforms should be forced to switch off addictive features like autoplay, or whether a minimum age requirement should be introduced in future.
Notably, 107 Labour MPs abstained from voting on the amendment, with Sir Keir Starmer accused of ‘dither and delay’ by Conservatives.
A potential ban could have huge knock on effects for the marketing landscape, especially in relation to influencer marketing – a medium which is particularly effective with younger audiences. Influencer Marketing Hub projected global influencer spending to reach $267bn by the end of 2025.
While the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) already mandates that marketers ensure their content is suitable to their audience, further restrictions could come into place should the ban be introduced later.
Other countries, such as Spain and Greece, are also proposing social media bans for teens and children, with other EU nations reportedly assessing the viability of restrictions and enforcements.
Australia’s social media ban has been in place for just over three months, with platforms now required to implement age verification methods such as ID documents, bank details, or selfies.
Tech companies themselves face repercussions for any breaches, with fines of up to AUD$49.5m if reasonable steps are not taken to ensure compliance.
Tech firms have pushed back against the ban, with Reddit launching a legal challenge against the government, claiming it threatens young people’s freedom of speech and could isolate them from “the ability to engage in age-appropriate community experiences (including political discussions)”.
The consultation, launched online, is open for anyone to respond – with three specific sections; children and young people (ages 10 to 21), parents and carers of young people, and members of civil society, industry and others. The consultation will close on 26 May 2026.
