A ban on social media use for children under 16 now appears almost inevitable in the UK, as political momentum continues to build across Parliament. After strong backing from the House of Lords, attention has shifted to the House of Commons, where the government may struggle to block the move.
The Lords recently approved an amendment to the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill that would require social media platforms to introduce highly effective age verification systems. These checks would be designed to prevent under 16s from creating or holding accounts. The amendment gives companies up to 12 months after the bill becomes law to comply.
While the government technically has the power to overturn the amendment when the bill returns to the Commons, doing so could prove difficult. Support for the ban has grown not only among opposition parties but also within the governing party itself.
Initially, the prime minister was hesitant about enforcing a full ban. However, that stance has softened amid increasing pressure from MPs and public campaigns.
Earlier this week, the government announced a public consultation on restricting social media use for under 16s. The move closely mirrors Australia’s recent ban, which came into effect in December.
Now, as the bill returns to the Commons, MPs must decide whether to accept the Lords’ changes. The outcome will be a key test of the prime minister’s authority, particularly after criticism that he has struggled to manage dissent within his own party.
Whether it takes the shape of a full ban or tighter controls backed by age checks, action now seems unavoidable.
They added that officials will continue working with experts, parents, and young people to ensure the final policy is evidence based and effective.
