UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced that social media will be banned for those under 16.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer made a statement regarding the ban on social media use for those under 16. Starmer, who said they listened to everyone in discussions about children's use of social media, stated, “I thank everyone who has worked bravely, including families campaigning after their tragic and terrible losses. Today is a day when a major step of change is taken for our children and our future. I can announce that the government will ban all children under 16 from accessing social media.”
Starmer noted that social media has both harms and benefits, and that it is the job of governments to make choices and decisions. Starmer said, “In my view, implementing a complete ban is clearly the right choice. The only thing I want is the happiness and safety of my children. All parents want this. But we must ask ourselves, do we really believe that social media creates a happy environment for children?”
'WE MUST FIGHT AGAINST LEARNED HELPLESSNESS'
Starmer emphasized that he believes parents will support this decision, saying, “It won't be easy because some companies want us to believe that social media is an unchangeable part of the natural order. We must fight against such learned helplessness. We can change this, and we will.”
Starmer stated that they will take steps to prevent strangers from messaging children on gaming and broadcasting applications, highlighting that children may violate the social media ban just as they violate other rules.
