Social media leaders called to Downing Street over children’s safety
Social Media Leaders Summoned to Downing Street for Children’s Safety Talks
On Thursday, leaders of major social media platforms are set to meet at Downing Street with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Technology Secretary Liz Kendall. The gathering aims to address concerns about safeguarding children online and how companies are responding to parental worries. Executives from Meta, Snap, YouTube, TikTok, and X are expected to face scrutiny on their efforts to protect young users.
Focus on Accountability and Responsibility
Starmer emphasized the need for social media firms to “take ownership of their role in ensuring child safety.” The meeting follows a government-led public consultation on restricting access to social media for individuals under 16, inspired by Australia’s recent measures. Downing Street has not disclosed which representatives from each tech firm will attend.
“The fallout from inaction is clear,” Starmer stated. “We must prioritize children’s safety—because the next generation will not tolerate anything less.”
Progress and Parental Controls
Number 10 highlighted that some platforms have already implemented features like disabling autoplay for children and offering parental tools to manage screen time. However, the meeting also reflects broader debates over balancing corporate accountability with evolving global pressures on the UK government to be lenient toward U.S.-based tech firms.
Political Backlash and Calls for Urgency
UK MPs recently voted against a proposal to ban social media for under-16s, rejecting the idea a second time. While ministers argue the ban is too soon, they plan to use the consultation to draft new rules. Conservative shadow education secretary Laura Trott criticized Labour for lagging behind other nations in addressing digital risks. Meanwhile, Liberal Democrat education spokeswoman Munira Wilson urged immediate action to limit harmful platforms for minors.
“The time for cautious steps is over,” Wilson said. “We need decisive measures to shield children from the most damaging content.”
Research and Advocacy
Recent findings from the Molly Rose Foundation, an internet safety charity, reveal that over 60% of Australian children under 16 continue using social media despite a 2025 ban. Founded by Molly Russell’s family after her 2017 suicide linked to online content, the charity opposes similar restrictions in the UK. Andy Burrows, its CEO, praised the meeting but warned against “empty assurances” from tech companies.
“Starmer must transform his supportive words into concrete policy,” Burrows said. “A new Online Safety Act in the King’s Speech is essential to end profit-driven practices that endanger young users.”
Expert Insights and Broader Implications
Prof Gina Neff, from the Minderoo Centre for Technology and Democracy, noted the government’s proactive stance in showcasing its commitment to online safety. She added that this move helps maintain pressure on tech firms amid shifting international scrutiny. Digital mental health expert Prof Amy Orben stressed the importance of holding companies accountable for their algorithms, which many claim keep users addicted and hinder disengagement.
As the national consultation concludes on 26 May, over 45,000 responses and 80 organizations—including schools and community groups—have been submitted. The process also examines age limits for gaming sites and AI chatbots. Sign up for the BBC’s Tech Decoded newsletter to stay updated on global tech trends. Outside the UK? Subscribe here.
