politics

Wes Streeting Advocates for Under-16s Ban on Certain Social Media Platforms

25 Mayıs 2026The Guardian

Wes Streeting, the former health secretary, has called for a ban on social media access for individuals under the age of 16, likening social media companies to the tobacco industry. His comments come as the government concludes a consultation on age limits for social media platforms.
Streeting emphasizes that such a ban is necessary to prevent large tech companies from evading regulations.
The discussion surrounding age restrictions on social media is gaining momentum as more studies reveal the negative effects of social media on young people's mental health. The government's consultation aims to address these issues, but the challenge remains in balancing regulation with freedom of expression.
Streeting's comparison of social media to tobacco highlights growing concerns about the impact of digital platforms on youth mental health. As the government grapples with regulatory frameworks, the call for stricter age limits reflects a broader societal shift towards prioritizing the well-being of children in an i…

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