Summary
MPs in the UK decided not to ban social media for children under 16, like Australia did. Instead, they want to use flexible rules to protect young people online better. A government consultation is underway to gather opinions on how to create a safer online space for kids.
Key Facts
- UK MPs rejected an outright social media ban for under-16s.
- Australia was the first country to implement such a ban.
- A consultation has been launched to gather opinions on safeguarding children online.
- The UK will consider flexible restrictions instead of a blanket ban.
- Proposed changes include limiting harmful features and controlling age of digital consent.
- The vote against the ban was 307 to 173.
- Over 100 Labour MPs chose not to vote on the issue.
- The consultation will explore age requirements and addictive social media features.