Members of the UK House of Commons voted against a proposal to prohibit children under the age of 16 from using social media platforms. The proposal was introduced as an amendment to the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill, legislation currently moving through the final stages of the parliamentary process. Lawmakers rejected the amendment by 307 votes to 173 during a vote held on Monday.
The amendment sought to introduce restrictions similar to those adopted in Australia, where social media platforms are required to block access for users younger than 16. The measure had previously received support in the House of Lords earlier in the legislative process.
Members of Parliament instead supported a government-backed proposal that provides ministers with broader regulatory powers. Under this approach, officials may introduce measures affecting youth access to social media following the outcome of a consultation on online safety policies.
According to the government, the consultation will examine several options for regulating children’s use of online platforms. These options include stronger age verification requirements and potential limits on platform features considered addictive.
The vote also rejected a related amendment intended to restrict the use of virtual private networks by minors. Such tools can disguise a user’s location and allow them to bypass regional restrictions or platform rules.
Government representatives said additional evidence is needed before implementing strict age-based restrictions. Education minister Olivia Bailey told lawmakers the issue was not whether action would be taken but how it should be implemented.
The debate over age limits for social media use has gained attention in several countries as policymakers examine potential risks for children online. In the UK, the government has said it will review the results of the ongoing consultation before deciding whether further restrictions are necessary.
The Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill remains under consideration in Parliament as the legislative process continues.