Starmer tells social media bosses things can't go on like this

Prime Minister Keir Starmer delivered a clear message to some of the most powerful figures in tech this week: the way social media operates today isn't good enough. In a meeting at Downing Street, Starmer sat down with senior leaders from Meta, TikTok, Google, and X to discuss growing concerns about online safety, particularly for young people. He told them, bluntly, that 'things can't go on like this,' underscoring a growing push from his government to hold platforms accountable.

The gathering marked one of the most direct interventions by a UK prime minister into the inner workings of social media companies. While previous governments have passed online safety laws, Starmer's administration appears focused on enforcement and real-world impact. Officials say the prime minister emphasized the toll that unregulated content-ranging from harmful algorithms to cyberbullying-has taken on children's mental health and public discourse.

One major topic on the table was the government's ongoing consultation about banning social media use for children under 16. While no decision has been made, the idea has gained traction amid rising anxiety from parents, educators, and health professionals. The tech executives present were reportedly asked to outline what steps their companies are already taking to protect younger users and what more they're willing to do.

The meeting didn't result in immediate policy changes, but it sent a strong signal. Downing Street made clear that voluntary efforts aren't enough and that stricter oversight could follow if platforms don't act. The Online Safety Act, passed in recent years, already places legal duties on companies to protect users, but enforcement has been uneven. Starmer's team wants to see those rules applied more rigorously.

Reactions from the tech firms were measured. Representatives acknowledged the concerns and pointed to existing tools like screen-time limits, parental controls, and AI content moderation. But they also cautioned that broad restrictions could have unintended consequences, such as pushing young users toward less regulated platforms or undermining digital literacy.

Still, the tone from the government is shifting. With youth mental health rates worsening and misinformation spreading faster than ever, there's growing public support for action. Polls show a majority of British parents favor tighter controls, and advocacy groups welcomed Starmer's direct approach.

What happens next will depend on the outcome of the current consultation and how tech companies respond behind the scenes. But one thing is clear: the UK government is no longer waiting for the industry to fix itself.