17/06/2026
Details are still emerging following the prime minister’s speech this morning, but what we do know is that the social media ban for under-16s will apply to Snapchat, TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook and X.
The government stated the ban will also apply to a “wider range of online services, including on gaming sites”.
One of the big questions, therefore, is what about Roblox? The hugely popular platform is the biggest gaming site in the UK for players aged eight to 12. No confirmation yet from the government, and we await a response from the platform.
What won’t be banned? WhatsApp and Signal were specifically named as “messaging services” that won’t be affected.
Now turning to social media…
And can I say how great it is to see so many people here…
Who played such a key role in the consultation.
And you know – some people are dismissive of processes like this.
But policymaking that doesn’t listen very carefully to the voices of those it seeks to serve…
That is not how this Government carries out its business.
And so, I just want to thank you for the role that you have all played…
And indeed – I want to thank all the people who have campaigned so courageously on this issue…
Including those who have done so after suffering terrible tragedy or loss…
Thank you.
Because today is a big moment for our country.
This is a big step…
Real change for our children and our future.
Because today – I can announce…
That the Government will ban access to social media…
For all children under the age of sixteen.
This is not something I do lightly.
And I will not present it as cost-free…
As if social media has brought no benefits to young people…
Because clearly that is wrong.
But Government is always about choices.
And its clear to me that a full ban is the right choice.
Now I come to it as a parent myself…
I know exactly the fears that we all feel when we’re thinking about this issue.
You know, all I have ever wanted for my own children, hand on heart…
Is for them to be happy and for them to be safe.
And I think that’s what any parent wants.
But I ask the question now…
Do we truly believe that social media creates a happy environment for our children
