British Doctors Urge Social Media Limits for Children Under 16
Senior British doctors said social media poses risks to children comparable to smoking. The Academy of Medical Royal Colleges submitted its findings to an ongoing government consultation on online child protection.
Senior British doctors said Tuesday that social media ranks alongside smoking as a danger to children and called for restrictions on access. The Academy of Medical Royal Colleges made the statement in a submission to the government’s consultation on protecting children online, which closes Tuesday.
The academy described social media as a unifying issue for the medical profession, comparable to smoking and seatbelt use.
Britain is considering measures that could include a ban on social media for children under 16. The consultation seeks input on how to address harms linked to excessive screen time. Students at Ricards Lodge High School in Wimbledon discussed a possible ban during interviews on February 23.
Key Facts
Story Timeline
3 events- February 23, 2026
Students at Ricards Lodge High School discussed a possible social media ban.
1 sourceJapan Times - May 26, 2026
Academy of Medical Royal Colleges submitted views to the government consultation.
1 sourceJapan Times - May 26, 2026
Government consultation on protecting children online closes.
1 sourceJapan Times
Potential Impact
- 01
Government may adopt new rules limiting children’s social media access.
- 02
Schools could adjust policies on student phone use during school hours.
Transparency Panel
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