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Sadiq Khan Backs Conditional Under-16 Social Media Ban

He is calling on platforms to prove their services are safe for children to force faster government action and algorithm changes.

Overview

  • Khan said at an SXSW London speech on Tuesday that social networks should be barred to under-16s unless firms can demonstrate their products are safe for children.
  • He demanded tech companies publicly explain how misogyny and harmful content spread on their platforms and set out algorithmic fixes or face state intervention.
  • The mayor announced a £1 million London package to support vulnerable boys and young men that includes school support, a fathers’ programme, and football mentors.
  • A national consultation on children’s online experiences recently closed after tens of thousands of responses and ministers have said they will publish proposals by summer and seek legislation before year-end.
  • Campaigners and bereaved parents press for an Australia-style ban but experts warn age checks are imperfect and stricter rules could push young people to less regulated parts of the internet.