MPs to debate petition on raising social media age limit to 16

MPs will debate a petition on Monday, 24 February, calling for a ban on children under 16 creating social media accounts.

The petition, which has received more than 127,000 signatures, argues that social media companies should be prevented from allowing under-16s to sign up.

The debate will be led by Tony Vaughan MP, a member of the Petitions Committee.

MPs from all parties can participate, and a Government minister will respond.

In its official response to the petition on 17 December 2024, the Government said it was not minded to support a ban but acknowledged ongoing discussions about the appropriate age for children to have access to social media.

Petition debates allow MPs to discuss issues raised by the public and put concerns to the Government. However, they do not result in a vote on implementing the petition’s request.

The debate will take place at 4.30pm on Monday, 24 February, and will be available to watch online.