The UK government has rejected US warnings that a proposed social media ban for under-16s would unfairly burden American tech firms. With a public consultation drawing a record 120,000 responses and 90% of parents backing a ban, Prime Minister Keir Starmer is expected to announce action in the coming days. Downing Street insists it will act in the national interest,despite US calls for 'narrowly targeted' rules instead.

120,000 responses and 90% parental support: the mandate for a ban

The consultation,described as the second-largest government consultation in history, revealed overwhelming public backing for tough measures. According to the source, 90% of parents who responded said they would support a ban. This strong mandate gives the government political cover to push ahead despite international pressure.

The US embassy's 'narrowly targeted' counter-proposal

The United States has formally warned that a blanket ban would impose 'disproportionate compliance burdens on American companies,' the source notes. In its response to the consultation, the US embassy in London advocated for 'narrowly targeted requirements' for adult content rather than broad bans. the US also expressed doubts about the reliability of age verification technology, a concern that remains unresolved.

Age verification technology: the unresolved technical hurdle

A key sticking point is whether existing technology can reliably determine a user's age. The US argued that 'technology is not good enough to determine whether someone is under 16.' UK ministers have not yet detailed how they would enforce a ban , leaving a critical question unanswered. Without effective age assurance, any ban could be easily circumvented.

Cross-party unity: Badenoch and Wilson push back against US interference

Opposition leaders have lined up behind the government's stance. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch told BBC Radio 4 that 'social media is for adults, it's not for children' and called for a comprehensive ban. Liberal Democrat MP Munira Wilson took aim at US influence, saying, 'If Donald Trump policed his own social media half as much as he meddles in British democracy, the internet would be a much safer place.' Wilson urged Starmer not to 'be bullied into watering down protections.'

What remains unclear: the form and timing of the ban

While the government leans toward an Australian-style ban, other options such as curfews or limits on addictive features are still on the table , the source reports. the exact announcement date is not confirmed, though speculation points to the coming days. The US also flagged concerns about free speech , arguing that 'most content should remain accessible by default.' How the UK will balance child safety with open internet principles remains to be seen.