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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 how they intend to enforce restrictions on high-risk online activities, including (1) live-streaming, and (2) contact with strangers.

Answer

The Government has announced its intention that live streaming and stranger communication, including in gaming, will be switched off by default for 16- and 17-year-olds and banned completely for under-16s. Services will need to enforce these restrictions through robust age checks, with requirements set out in regulations later this year.

The Secretary of State wrote to Ofcom’s leadership, making clear that enforcing the Online Safety Act, and these new protections, must be a top priority.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL1118
Session
2026-27
Subjects
Children Enforcement Protection Safety Social media
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk