Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has declared there is a "strong case" for implementing a ban on social media access for children under the age of 16, while simultaneously ruling out any police involvement in enforcing such restrictions. The government is now launching a comprehensive consultation to examine whether to follow Australia's lead in restricting young people's access to these platforms.
Government Consultation Launched
The Home Office has initiated a formal consultation process regarding young people's use of social media, with recommendations expected later this year. This move comes as the House of Lords recently passed an amendment calling for a ban, creating potential parliamentary challenges for the Commons depending on Labour Party sentiment.
During an appearance on Sunday Morning with Trevor Phillips, Ms Mahmood emphasised the government's commitment to a "genuine open consultation" while acknowledging Australia's recent implementation of similar restrictions. "I think there is a strong case for a ban," she stated, "because I believe the social media environment poses significant dangers for our young people during their formative years."
Police Role Explicitly Excluded
Despite her support for potential restrictions, the Home Secretary made clear that police forces would not be tasked with regulating any social media ban. As the minister responsible for policing, she firmly rejected suggestions that officers should monitor teenagers' online activities in their bedrooms.
"Policing perfectly legal tweets or engaging in culture war issues is not what our police are for," Ms Mahmood asserted. "Their role is to pursue criminals, prevent crime, maintain visible community presence, and ensure public safety through neighbourhood policing reforms."
International Context and Timing
The UK's consideration of social media restrictions coincides with similar movements internationally. French President Emmanuel Macron announced on Saturday his intention to implement a ban for under-15s by September's school start date, while Australia's existing ban provides a working model for evaluation.
Ms Mahmood's comments come as she prepares to unveil broader policing reform proposals on Monday, emphasising her commitment to keeping officers focused on core crime-fighting duties rather than online content moderation.
The Home Secretary concluded: "We need to seriously reconsider the digital environment we're allowing our children to grow up in. This isn't just a family matter—it's a national concern that requires careful, evidence-based policy decisions."
