Tories propose banning under-16s from social media, Kemi Badenoch says

Kemi Badenoch said the Conservatives would set a 16-year age limit to restrict under-16s from social media and proposed banning smartphones in schools with age verification for platforms; the government says it is monitoring developments.

Kemi Badenoch, leader of the Conservative Party, said the party wants an age limit of 16 to restrict access to social media for under-16s. She framed the move as a response to platforms that profit from distraction and anxiety and pointed to Australia’s approach as a model. The Conservatives said they would also ban smartphones in schools and ask social media companies to use age verification tools. Some government ministers, including the prime minister and the technology secretary, have expressed reservations and the government is monitoring the response. Key points: - Kemi Badenoch proposed an Australian-style age limit of 16 to prevent under-16s from setting up social media accounts. - The Conservatives said they would ban smartphones in schools and request age verification from platforms if elected. - The prime minister and the technology secretary have previously expressed opposition, and ministers say they are monitoring Australia’s changes. Summary: The proposal positions child protection as the primary reason for restricting youth access to major social platforms and would involve industry and school measures if pursued. Undetermined at this time.