Potential restrictions on social media, AI chatbots, and gaming sites for under-16s are set to be considered in a three month consultation period by the UK Government.

The consultation will engage with questions around age verification and curfews for social media sites, as well as whether addictive features such as infinite scrolling and auto play should be turned off to help with sleep.

Bridget Phillipson, Education Secretary, said: “Every child deserves a childhood – real experiences, real friendships, real opportunities.

“We are determined to make that a reality, both inside and outside the classroom.”

As part of the Government’s efforts to support parents, a website has been launched offering online safety advice.

Technology Secretary, Liz Kendall commented: “The path to a good life is a great childhood, one full of love, learning and play. That applies just as much to the online world as it does to the real one.”

Last month, Conservative Leader, Kemi Badenoch said that the Conservative Party would support a ban on social media for under-16s.

The consultation period will last until 26 March 2026 and will try to engage with a range of people, including parents, carers, young people, teachers and academics.

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