‘Let kids be kids’: We asked our readers what they thought about the new social media ban for under 16s.

Keir Starmer announced that a ban would be brought into law by Spring 2027 in a press conference held on June 16.

The Prime Minister says that the regulation will be passed by Christmas this year meaning that millions of children who currently have access to social media will be kicked off.

Social media platforms such as TikTok, Snapchat and Facebook will have to introduce age verification software to ensure that these changes can take place.

Our readers were mostly in favour of the ban, saying that social media is damaging for young brains.

Neil Burns wrote: “Kids don’t need the pressures and anxiety that come with social media.

“Also parents don’t need the hassle of trying to prevent their kids from using it, so it is a win win.”

Debra Rooke agreed, she said: "Absolutely the right thing to do.

“Can’t see how anyone can argue when you see the things kids are exposed to.”

Sheena Hugs wrote: “It is a positive step forward, seeing the impact of online bullying and the pressures of keeping up with ‘perfect lives’ on social media.

“It only makes kids feel like they are failing when in fact they are doing just great.”

Many of our readers commented that social media is taking away childhood experiences and that they would be better off without it.

“Get kids off social media and let them be kids,” said Helen Thompson.

However not all of our readers support the ban and think that the government is demanding too much control.

Sarah Jane Morgan wrote: “I don’t need the government to tell me how to parent thank you.

“This is a digital ID through the back door.”

Phillip White agrees, he said: “It is a bit of a cop out because it puts the responsibility on the parents and not on the social media sites.”

Some readers say they don’t think the ban will work as children will find ways around it.

“They will get around it, like they have in Australia,” Carl Whittaker said.

Simon Hart wrote: “Under 16s are the next tech leaders, they will always find a way.

“Just as years ago when we were under age we found ways to drink and smoke, it is what kids do.”