Should the UK ban social media for under-16s?

The Fourcast · Jan 23, 2026 · 32m · transcript

The government is weighing up whether or not to follow in Australia’s footsteps and ban social media for under-16s. Supporters argue that online safety efforts have failed and that children are being exposed to increasingly harmful content. Critics warn that a ban would isolate young people, let tech companies off the hook, and create a dangerous cliff-edge at 16.

Companies across the Big Tech sector have consistently said that protecting children is a priority, as is reducing the spread of disinformation on their platforms.

In today’s episode of The Fourcast, Cathy Newman speaks to Professor…