Story perspectives

Lib Dems Propose Age Ratings for Safer Social Media

1/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Liberal Democrats propose film-style age ratings for social media to protect children online.
The plan would restrict access to platforms that have addictive algorithms or inappropriate content to users over 16 and would rate platforms with graphic violence or pornography at 18+.
The Liberal Democrats plan to table an amendment in the House of Lords next week to avoid the Conservatives' blanket ban on under-16s, with support from parents and child protection charities.

History

Historical Context

The UK's Online Safety Bill, introduced in 2021, aimed to regulate harmful online content, reflecting growing concerns over children's safety. Following previous attempts at regulation, including the Digital Economy Act 2017, the bill established a duty of care for online platforms. By October 2023, the Online Safety Act was enacted, imposing significant responsibilities on platforms to protect minors from harmful material.

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Story summary

The Liberal Democrats propose film-style age ratings for social media to protect children online.
The plan would restrict access to platforms that have addictive algorithms or inappropriate content to users over 16 and would rate platforms with graphic violence or pornography at 18+.
The Liberal Democrats plan to table an amendment in the House of Lords next week to avoid the Conservatives' blanket ban on under-16s, with support from parents and child protection charities.

1 / 2