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Written question asked by Lord Storey (Liberal Democrat) on Thursday, 18 June 2026, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 2 July 2026. It was answered by Baroness Lloyd of Effra (Labour) on Friday, 3 July 2026 on behalf of the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology.


Social Media: Children

Question

To ask His Majesty's Government what criteria will be used to determine which social media platforms are subject to the proposed restrictions on children's access.

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
HL1116
Session
2026-27
Subjects
Children Protection Safety Social media
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk