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Youth urge Burnham to reconsider social media ban
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
Over 150 Scottish youth groups wrote to PM Andy Burnham urging rethink of under-16 social media.
The ban could push young people to less regulated online spaces, so they demand.
Background
The UK government, under former PM Sir Keir Starmer, proposed a social media ban for under-16s, aiming for spring 2027. The Scottish Youth Parliament and over 150 organizations argue the ban could drive young people to less regulated parts of the internet and violate children's rights under the UN Convention. They are calling for a children's rights impact assessment and meaningful consultation.
How it unfolded
- Jun 2026Sir Keir Starmer announced plans for a social media ban for under-16s, with a target of spring 2027.
- Aug 12, 2026Scottish youth groups and organizations, led by the Scottish Youth Parliament, wrote to PM Andy Burnham urging a rethink.
- Aug 13, 2026The letter gained media coverage, with SYP chair Ellie Craig emphasizing the need to work with young people.
Who’s saying what
- Youth
- Ellie Craig: 'Legislation affecting millions of young people cannot be developed without properly listening to those who will live with its consequences.'