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Social Media: Children

Asked by Charlie DewhirstConservativeDepartment for Science, Innovation and TechnologyTabled Answered 14 July 2026UIN 16720

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, with reference to the press release, social media to be banned for under-16s in landmark government move to give kids their childhood back, 15 June 2026, whether the Government’s new Digital ID will be used for age verification.

Answered by Kanishka Narayan

Following the Government’s announcement that it will restrict social media access for under-16s, the Secretary of State asked Ofcom to conduct a rapid assessment of what will constitute highly effective age assurance and what is fair and accessible. Ofcom will publish its findings in October.

Government is considering a range of options. Any use of digital identity services would remain voluntary.

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