Streeting likens social media to tobacco as pressure grows for under-16s ban
Wes Streeting has drawn parallels between social media and the tobacco industry, emphasizing the need for stricter regulations for under-16s. As the Government's consultation on online safety approaches its deadline, there are increasing calls for a ban on social media for younger users. Medical professionals have reported a rise in mental health issues among children linked to online content, urging immediate action.
- ▪Wes Streeting has likened tech companies to the tobacco industry, calling for a ban on social media for under-16s.
- ▪The Government's Growing Up In The Online World consultation is considering measures such as an Australia-style social media ban.
- ▪A report by the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges highlights the dangers of social media, comparing its impact to smoking.
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NewsUKUK PoliticsStreeting likens social media to tobacco as pressure grows for under-16s banThe Government’s consultation closes at the end of Tuesday.Sophie Wingate Tuesday 26 May 2026 00:01 BSTBookmarkBookmark popoverRemoved from bookmarksClose popover{"translations":{"comments":"Go to comments","share":"Share","copyLink":"Copy link","bookmark":"Bookmark","removeBookmark":"Remove bookmark"},"showComments":false,"showBookmark":true,"articleId":"d395bb33-e9de-4050-b679-0411dcac7384","articleMeta":{"url":"https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/wes-streeting-government-keir-starmer-prime-minister-b2983315.html","title":"Streeting likens social media to tobacco as pressure grows for under-16s ban"}}open image in gallery{"id":"trigger-autogallery-27158","index":0}Calls are growing…
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