Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy has indicated that the UK government’s current proposal to restrict social media access for children under 16 is only the beginning of a larger legislative agenda. Speaking on the government’s online safety strategy, Nandy described the ban as a “staging post,” suggesting that technology companies should anticipate further regulatory measures in the future.

The proposed framework targets “high-risk” social media platforms, aiming to limit access for those under 16. For older teenagers aged 16 and 17, the government is focusing on specific features rather than total bans. These measures include restricting “infinite scrolling” and limiting the use of algorithms that curate content feeds, which officials argue can expose young users to harmful material. The government is also pushing for more robust age-verification technologies to ensure these restrictions are effectively enforced across digital platforms.

While the government frames these moves as essential protections for youth mental health and safety, the policy has sparked ongoing debate regarding the balance between digital protection and personal freedom. Nandy’s comments clarify that the government does not view the current legislative package as the final word on online safety, signaling that tech firms will likely face continued pressure to alter their product designs and safety protocols in the coming years.