The UK government announced in June 2026 a ban on social media access for under-16s, modeled on Australia's approach and delivered through secondary legislation amending the Online Safety Act 2023 via the Children's Wellbeing and Schools Act. Regulations covering platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, YouTube, Facebook, and X are scheduled for laying before Parliament by year-end 2026, with implementation targeted for March 2027. Ofcom is conducting work on effective age assurance methods, while additional default restrictions on features like livestreaming and stranger contact apply to under-18s. Recent statements from Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy describe the measures as an initial step toward broader online safety rules, backed by consultation results showing strong parental support. Trader assessments of timing hinge on parliamentary progress, enforcement readiness, and any adjustments to the spring 2027 rollout.