Story perspectives

UK to Tighten Under-16 Social Media Rules, Commissioner Warns

5/30/2026

Center

Killean Warns Ban

Scotland’s children’s commissioner warned that a blanket ban on under-16 social-media use could push youths toward less regulated online spaces.
UK government closed the “Growing up in the online world” consultation after receiving over 81,000 responses and pledged swift action.
Commissioner Nicola Killean and Welsh MS Sam Rowlands urged platform accountability and comparable safeguards.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said summer steps will use new powers.

Left

Judge Fay Warns

Judge Susan Fay warned social-media users not to disclose identities of two 16-year-old suspects in the Alex Coughlan attack.
The two 16-year-old boys charged in Alex Coughlan attack were denied bail and remanded to Oberstown Campus on June 24.
Director of Public Prosecutions asked to order platforms to delete posts violating juveniles’ anonymity.
Around 500 attended a vigil and a fundraiser raised just over €20,000 for his family.

1 of 2

Killean Warns Ban

Scotland’s children’s commissioner warned that a blanket ban on under-16 social-media use could push youths toward less regulated online spaces.
UK government closed the “Growing up in the online world” consultation after receiving over 81,000 responses and pledged swift action.
Commissioner Nicola Killean and Welsh MS Sam Rowlands urged platform accountability and comparable safeguards.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said summer steps will use new powers.

1 / 2