UK PM Starmer Urges Stronger Online Protection for Children – 19 Jan 2026

UK Prime Minister Starmer Calls for Stronger Protection of Children on Social Media (19 January 2026)

On 19 January 2026, British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer declared that “more must be done to protect children online”, emphasizing that current laws are insufficient to shield young users from digital risks. The government is now considering stricter policies to ensure that children can safely navigate social media platforms.

Speaking to the media from 9 Downing Street in London, Starmer said:

“We need to do more to safeguard our children, and that is why we are exploring all options — no idea is off the table.”

This announcement comes amid growing global concerns about online safety, particularly regarding artificial intelligence tools and social media platforms that expose children to harmful content. Experts and parents alike have raised alarms about the increasing risks of mental health issues, online bullying, and exposure to inappropriate material.

Risks Faced by Children and Government Considerations

Research shows that excessive use of social media can affect children’s mental and social health, leading to anxiety, attention issues, body image concerns, cyberbullying, and reduced time for productive activities. Many children spend several hours daily online, impacting their sleep, academic performance, and overall well-being.

In response, the government is considering several measures:

Raising the minimum age for social media accounts from 13 to 16 to better protect young users.

Banning social media use for children under 16, to reduce exposure to harmful and addictive content.

Stricter content moderation and algorithm control to limit children’s access to violent, sexual, or otherwise damaging material.

Supporters argue that these steps are essential to safeguard children, while some experts warn that overly strict bans could drive children to unregulated areas of the internet, such as encrypted platforms or the dark web, where the risks may be far greater.

Current Laws and Government Strategy

The UK already has robust legal frameworks like the Online Safety Act, which requires platforms to implement age verification, content filtering, and control over harmful algorithms. Violating these regulations can result in hefty fines and reputational consequences for companies.

Prime Minister Starmer emphasized that while these laws have been effective, emerging risks from AI tools and sophisticated social media algorithms demand additional measures. The government is committed to exploring all available options to ensure a safer online environment for children.

Public Reaction and Political Debate

The issue has sparked widespread political debate in the UK. Parents, child safety organizations, and experts agree that protecting children online is a top priority. While some advocate for parental monitoring and education, others support stricter regulatory measures to hold social media companies accountable.

Conclusion

As of 19 January 2026, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has highlighted the urgent need for stronger protections for children on social media. The government is reviewing all potential measures, including raising age limits, implementing under-16 restrictions, and increasing platform accountability. These steps aim to safeguard children while shaping a responsible, secure online environment in the UK.