UK to Proceed with Under-16 Social Media Ban Despite US Opposition

UK Government Stands Firm on Under-16 Social Media Ban

The British government has confirmed it will proceed with its proposed crackdown on tech platforms, including a ban on social media for under-16s, despite intervention from the Trump administration. Technology Secretary Liz Kendall stated she is not concerned 'in the slightest' by the US embassy's opposition, emphasizing that her priority is 'British young people.'

In a submission to a UK government consultation on online safety, the US embassy in London warned against 'prescribed one-size-fits-all government restrictions' and 'blunt regulatory instruments' to address online harms to children. The notice argued that age-gating for 13- to 16-year-olds would not work, stating that 'technical methods developed to distinguish minors from adults cannot simply be repurposed for younger thresholds.'

Instead, the Trump administration called on the UK to provide parents with 'robust tools' to manage their children's privacy settings and account controls, and to require platforms to offer a healthy online experience 'rather than outright bans.'

Government Response and Next Steps

Kendall told the Guardian that nine out of ten respondents to a government poll supported an under-16 ban. She added that she is 'very happy to read any submission anybody makes' but her priority remains British young people. A Downing Street spokesperson echoed this sentiment, saying: 'We will always act in the UK's national interest and protecting young people is no different.'

The government is set to announce some form of social media ban for under-16s next week, alongside other restrictions such as a possible block on conversations with strangers on gaming platforms. Limits on AI chatbot use are also under consideration.

Balancing Regulation and Investment

Kendall denied any tension between seeking investment into the UK from US AI companies and implementing regulations that affect major American tech firms. 'I think companies will continue investing in Britain,' she said. 'My focus is on what is right for British parents and British families.'

The UK's approach to online safety has been closely watched globally, and this latest development signals that the government is willing to stand up to external pressure to protect young people online. The proposed measures are part of a broader effort to make the UK the safest place in the world to be online.

Key Points of the Proposed Ban

• Social media ban for under-16s, with details to be announced next week.
• Possible block on conversations with strangers on gaming platforms.
• Limits on AI chatbot use for children.
• Government poll shows 90% support for the ban among respondents.

The US embassy's intervention highlights the international implications of the UK's online safety regulations. However, the UK government remains resolute in its commitment to protecting children from online harms, even in the face of opposition from a key ally.

This article is based on reporting by The Guardian. Read the original article.