Lib Dems propose film-style age ratings for teen social media

The Liberal Democrats are advocating for age-based film ratings for social media apps to control which platforms children can use.

Their plan involves limiting platforms with addictive algorithms or unsuitable content to those over 16, and sites featuring "explicit violence or adult content" to those 18 and older.

According to the Lib Dems, this strategy would "prevent inadvertent outcomes" that could arise from banning all under-16s, as the Conservatives propose.

In recent announcements, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer mentioned he is considering a full ban, stating his openness to "exploring all possibilities."

He expressed interest in observing the impact of a recent Australian ban.

The Australian law, effective since December, obligates certain social media platforms like Facebook, Snapchat, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and TikTok to take "practical measures" to block children's access.

To verify users' ages, these companies may resort to government ID, facial or voice recognition, or analyze online behavior for age estimation.

The Conservatives have said a similar approach would be enacted in the UK if they win the election, barring under-16s from social media.

Tory leader Kemi Badenoch noted: "The internet can be chaotic, especially on social media; we want to protect children from it."

Nonetheless, Victoria Collins of the Liberal Democrats criticised the idea of a "sweeping ban" as ineffective in today's digital context, claiming it shows a lack of trust from the Conservatives towards parents."