Ex-Minister: Treat Social Media Like Tobacco

Former health secretary Wes Streeting has urged that social media companies should be regulated similarly to the tobacco industry. He publicly stated that a ban on access for individuals under 16 years old is necessary, asserting that large technology firms are actively avoiding oversight.

Streeting's call for action comes as the government is set to conclude its 12-week consultation on age limits for social media platforms. Ministers are expected to announce a final decision within weeks, with potential measures including age restrictions on specific app features and algorithmic content.

His proposal faced internal resistance due to concerns about pushing children to the dark web or leaving them unprepared for digital literacy. However, he remains a strong advocate for implementing these changes to protect young people.

Various groups are pressing the government for stringent action. Bereaved parents, including Esther Ghey and Ian Russell, are scheduled to meet the prime minister. Additionally, a coalition of children's organizations, such as the NSPCC, advocates for bans on advertising, profiling, and manipulative design features, alongside age restrictions for personalized services.