UK Considers Age Restrictions on Social Media Following US Court Verdict

Following a significant US court verdict which found that Google and Meta deliberately designed social media platforms to be addictive, the UK government is reviewing potential regulations that could restrict access for children under 16. Prime Minister Keir Starmer has indicated that changes are forthcoming, reflecting growing global concern over the impact of social media on young users. Australia has already implemented similar age-based restrictions, while other countries are considering tighter controls. The BBC’s political editor, Chris Mason, examines whether the UK might follow this international trend. The discussions are part of a broader debate on online safety, digital wellbeing, and corporate accountability in the technology sector. This consideration comes amid wider scrutiny of platforms like Instagram and Facebook, as governments weigh the long-term social and psychological effects of early exposure to social media. The issue intersects with wider policy concerns, including child protection, mental health, and regulation of tech giants, highlighting the balance governments must strike between innovation and public safety.