MPs have rejected a proposal to ban under-16s from using social media for the second time. The prime minister summoned tech bosses this week to demand tougher action on internet safety.

MPs voted 256 to 150 against Lord Nash’s amendment for a default ban, giving ministers 12 months to decide on platform bans. Instead, the government is consulting on an under-16s ban and social media restrictions, ending next month. MPs had previously rejected the amendment in favor of flexible social media curbs, but the Lords wanted the default ban. 

On Thursday Keir Starmer met senior leaders at the social media companies TikTok, X, YouTube, Snapchat and Meta to demand swifter progress on internet safety.

Speaking before the meeting, Starmer said: “Parents rightly expect action and fast. That’s why we’ve already taken the powers needed to move quickly once our consultation ends. I will take whatever steps necessary to keep children safe online. Today is about making sure social media companies step up and take responsibility.”