Should access to social media be limited to people over 16?
The House of Lords recently voted 266-141 to back an immediate ban on social media access for under-16s, defying government plans for consultation and testing. Proponents cite harms like addiction, mental health issues, and exposure to dangerous content via addictive algorithms. Critics warn of mandatory age verification via ID and biometrics for all users, potential privacy risks, and infringement on parental choice and free speech.