UK MPs Reject Ban on Social Media for Under-16s, Government to Consult

A proposed ban on social media for under-16s has been rejected by MPs in the UK. The decision comes after a vote in the House of Commons, where 307 MPs voted against the proposed change to the children’s wellbeing and schools bill.

The bill was brought forward by Conservative peer and former minister John Nash, who had backed the age limit after growing calls from campaigners. However, the Commons supported a government attempt to give additional powers to the secretary of state.

Supporters of the ban said parents are in “an impossible position” over the online harms their children are being exposed to. However, others, including the NSPCC, warned that such legislation could drive teenagers into unregulated corners of the internet.

The government has launched a consultation to seek views on how to ensure children can grow up with a safer, healthier and more enriching relationship with the online world. The consultation will look at whether social media platforms should come with a minimum age requirement and whether platforms should switch off addictive features such as autoplay.

The children’s wellbeing and schools bill will now return to the House of Lords to be further considered by peers. It will only become law if the final draft is agreed by both houses.

The government's response to the death of Sara Sharif, 10, who was murdered by her father and stepmother in 2023, will also be considered as part of the bill. The legislation will require councils to “assess the child’s home environment within 15 days” of them being listed on a register of children not in school.