Social media executives deny platforms are inherently addictive to children

"Executives from Meta, Roblox, and TikTok insisted their platforms were not designed to be addictive, stating there was no evidence to support claims of inherent addiction. They argued that a social media ban for under-16s would be unenforceable, citing the Australian experience where children continued to use social media despite a ban."

"Rebecca Stimson, Meta's UK director of public policy, emphasized that the Australian ban on under-16s using social media was not effective or practical, as early research indicated that most children were still accessing these platforms."

"The committee chair, Helen Hayes, expressed frustration over Snapchat's absence from the hearing, warning that the committee would use its powers to summon a witness if necessary, highlighting the seriousness of the inquiry into social media's impact on youth."

Executives from Meta, Roblox, and TikTok faced questioning from MPs regarding the impact of social media on children. They denied that their platforms were designed to be addictive and argued against a proposed ban for under-16s, claiming it would be unenforceable. The committee chair criticized Snapchat for not attending the hearing. The UK government is considering regulations similar to Australia's, which have shown limited effectiveness. Recent legal cases have raised concerns about the design of social media products and their effects on young users.

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