Starmer preparing to announce social media restrictions for children

Key developments are emerging from the global stage. Starmer preparing to announce social media restrictions for children16 minutes ago Share Save Add as preferred on GoogleHenry ZeffmanChief Political CorrespondentPA MediaSir Keir Starmer is preparing to announce a crackdown on children's access to social media within days. A speech from the prime minister which will include a new policy on social media is planned for next week. Next week is already a crucial week for Sir Keir, who will spend several days at the annual G7 summit of world leaders in France, while the Makerfield by-election in which Andy Burnham is Labour's candidate is taking place on Thursday.

In recent weeks, government ministers have examined a variety of options for restrictions, including a blanket ban on under-16s accessing social media, as has been introduced in Australia. Social media restrictions for under-16s even if no ban, minister saysSocial media bans and digital curfews to be trialled on UK teenagersMinisters to issue guidance on children's screen useThere have also been discussions about exempting elements of social media deemed less harmful. The prime minister was previously resistant to restrictions on children's access to social media.

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But under pressure from the Conservatives and the Liberal Democrats, as well as dozens of Labour MPs, the government launched a public consultation on a ban in March. When the consultation closed last month, Sir Keir vowed to take "decisive" measures which he promised would be a "game-changer". A full list of the parties who have put forward candidates for the Makerfield by-election can be found here.

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The development has drawn wide international attention, with diplomatic circles watching closely.