Culture secretary Lisa Nandy says the planned restrictions on children’s social media use are only an initial step, and that the government intends to regulate online spaces more actively. She argues that children should be able to use safer platforms rather than being excluded from social media altogether, and says the state must help shape technology so it serves the public.

The under-16 ban on access to high-risk apps, alongside restrictions for 16- and 17-year-olds and stronger age checks, is due to take effect in March. A consultation drew more than 116,000 responses, with 85% of parents saying social media’s risks outweighed its benefits. Nandy also raised concerns about Ofcom’s ability to enforce the Online Safety Act, criticised X representatives for missing a meeting, and backed exploring a public service algorithm to compete with major platforms.