The United Kingdom’s House of Lords has formally expressed support for a legislative measure that would prohibit social media accounts for users under the age of sixteen. The motion, presented to the Lords’ Committee on Digital and Media Affairs, cites concerns over youth exposure to online content and the need for stricter age verification protocols. This backing comes after a series of parliamentary debates in which the Lords highlighted gaps in current privacy protections for minors.

_2_ Government officials are concurrently reviewing the feasibility of implementing their own form of restriction. A consultation period, aimed at gathering input from technology companies, educators, and child‑advisory groups, is set to conclude in the summer months. The consultation outlines potential regulatory frameworks, including mandatory age‑verification systems and the creation of a dedicated oversight body to monitor enforcement. The government’s draft policy also references existing European data‑protection directives, aligning domestic law with broader continental standards.

_3_ The proposed ban is expected to influence several sectors: social‑media platforms may need to overhaul sign‑up procedures, while educational institutions might integrate digital wellbeing curricula. The timeline for enactment will depend on the outcomes of the forthcoming consultation, with parliamentary approval required before any legislation can be enacted. Stakeholders are urged to submit written comments by the consultation’s deadline, after which the government will publish a summary of recommendations. Once approved, the new legislation would likely come into force within a year, marking a significant shift in the UK’s approach to child protection in the digital age.