Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy has indicated that the government’s regulatory approach to digital platforms extends beyond the previously announced social media ban for children under 16. Speaking at the Labour party conference, Nandy characterized the upcoming restriction as a preliminary measure in a more comprehensive effort to reshape how online spaces operate.
The government announced earlier this year that teenagers under 16 would be prohibited from accessing high-risk social media applications, with safer platforms facing additional restrictions. The ban is scheduled to take effect by March, followed by further measures targeting 16- and 17-year-olds, including limitations on infinite scrolling features and algorithms that promote harmful content, along with enhanced age-verification requirements.
Nandy framed the government’s intention to position itself as an active regulator in the digital sphere, comparing the situation to physical town centers. She argued that if real-world civic spaces became unsafe, the response would not be to confine children indoors, suggesting that permanent removal from social media is similarly not an acceptable long-term solution. Instead, she advocated for shaping digital environments to make them safer and more empowering for users.
The culture secretary indicated the government has demonstrated willingness to challenge major technology companies and risk disagreement with US authorities. Plans include giving established broadcasters and media companies greater visibility on platforms like YouTube and TikTok. Nandy also acknowledged concerns about Ofcom’s capacity to enforce regulations under the Online Safety Act, emphasizing that legislation requires effective enforcement mechanisms to be meaningful.
Additionally, Nandy expressed support for proposals involving a public service algorithm as an alternative to those developed by large technology firms, aligning with broader government objectives to position the UK as a leader in responsible technology development.
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