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Written question asked by Ian Roome (Liberal Democrat) on Thursday, 18 June 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 22 June 2026. It was answered by Kanishka Narayan (Labour) on Friday, 26 June 2026 on behalf of the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology.

Social Media: Children

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, what criteria she will use to designate social media platforms included in a ban for those under 16 years of age; and whether she will regularly review the criteria for inclusion.

Answer

Keeping children safe online is a priority for this government. That is why the Secretary of State announced a ban on social media platforms offering their services to under-16s.

We aim to use the same model as Australia. This means capturing user to user platforms, whose purpose is to enable social interaction, which allow users to post material alongside algorithms. A narrowly defined list of exemptions, including messaging and educational services, will also be set out and kept under review.

The Secretary of State will set out the final criteria in regulations that she brings forward before the end of 2026.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
11282
Session
2026-27
Subjects
Children Protection Safety Social media
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk