How will the UK respond to US court verdict on social media?

"The verdict of a jury in Los Angeles, that Google and Meta intentionally built addictive social media platforms is being seen as a landmark, as societies around the world decide how, or whether, to regulate social media further and consider banning children from using it."

"The first question the consultation poses and seeks to address is the idea of 'setting a minimum age for children to access social media' - and were this to be seen as a good idea, 'what age would be right'."

"Within hours of the verdict in Los Angeles, the government said in a statement that its consultation was looking at banning social media for under 16s as well as how it might tackle 'addictive design features.'"

"The vibe I pick up is ministers feel this court case creates space for ministers to feel more confident in making an argument that tighter restrictions, particularly for children, are appropriate."

A jury in Los Angeles determined that Google and Meta designed addictive social media platforms, leading to increased scrutiny on child access. Governments are considering banning social media for users under 16 and addressing addictive design features. The consultation aims to establish a minimum age for social media access, with discussions ongoing about the appropriate age. The government plans to respond to the consultation by the end of July, while opposition politicians are currently advocating for stricter regulations regarding children's online safety.

Read at www.bbc.com