UK Government to Decide on Social Media Measures for Children by Year End

He described the coming measures as a "game-changer" and said action would follow "very quickly." The consultation, titled Growing Up In The Online World, gathered public responses and meetings with parents. Starmer said the question is no longer whether to act, but what specific steps to take.

Kendall said the government would decide on its response before the end of the year. She stated that the government now has powers to implement results quickly. Parliament previously granted the government authority through the Children's Wellbeing and Schools Act to regulate or restrict children's social media use.

Officials can choose measures such as an age limit, scrolling restrictions, or overnight curfews.

Lord Nash, a Conservative former minister, said the government had committed to introducing age or functionality restrictions for children under 16. He urged delivery of that commitment in the shortest possible timeframe. Ellen Roome, whose 14-year-old son died while attempting an online challenge, called for restrictions until companies prove platforms are safe.

She said families need clarity rather than further speculation. Paul Whiteman, general secretary of the NAHT school leaders' union, said a ban alone would not address all risks and should be paired with wider measures. He noted late-night scrolling can affect classroom concentration.

Leanda Barrington-Leach of the 5Rights Foundation said changes must address business models and product design rather than relying on age limits alone. She argued the issue is built into systems that prioritize engagement and profit. Katie Lam, speaking for the Conservatives, described the consultation as reasonable but said the government does not appear to act quickly.

Victoria Collins, the Liberal Democrats' technology spokeswoman, said social media companies have profited from addictive algorithms while treating children's mental health as secondary.