India, June 15 -- The United Kingdom has announced plans to ban children under the age of 16 from accessing major social media platforms, in one of the most sweeping online safety proposals introduced by a Western government.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirmed the move on Monday, stating that the ban would be implemented early next year as part of a broader push to strengthen protections for children in the digital space. The proposed restrictions are also expected to cover certain gaming and livestreaming services.

Starmer said the decision was not easy but necessary, stressing that governments must take stronger responsibility in addressing the harmful impact of social media on young users. He added that he was "not prepared to com...