U.K., Oct. 21 -- UK Parliament issued the following news:

On Monday 2 November, MPs will debate a petition relating to the proposed ban on social media for under 16s.

Watch the debate (from 4:30pm, Monday 2 November)

Read the debate transcript (available shortly after the conclusion of the debate).

Tony Vaughan MP, a member of the Petitions Committee, has been asked by the Committee to open the debate. MPs from all parties can take part, and the Government will send a minister to respond.

"Do not ban social media for under 16s"

The petition , which received more than 217,000 signatures, states: "I think the government shouldn’t ban social media for under 16s. This is because for many young people social media is how they communicate with their friends. Some people view social media as a lifeline. A community, a supportive network. This is why I think the government shouldn’t ban it."

In its response to the petition, provided on 4 March 2026, the Government said: "The government recognises the benefits of digital technologies, including social media, for children. We are consulting on how to ensure children have an enriching and positive experience online."

Read the full response

What are petitions debates?

Petitions debates are 'general' debates which allow MPs from all parties to discuss the important issues raised by one or more petitions, and put their concerns to Government Ministers.

Petition debates don’t end with a vote to implement the request of a petition. This means MPs will not vote on the request of the petitions at the end of the debate. Instead, the aim is to give MPs an opportunity to discuss the issues raised by a petition, and get a response from the Government.

Petition debates are scheduled by the Petitions Committee. Only e-petitions started on the Parliament petitions site are considered by the Petitions Committee.

Further information

Find out more about petition debates

Find out more about the role of the Petitions Committee

Find out more about select committees

Image: Parliamentary copyright

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