UK Labour leader Keir Starmer calls for urgent action to address growing concerns over online safety.

The Labour Party leader has met with top executives from major tech companies, urging them to take immediate steps to protect young people from online harassment and exploitation. Starmer’s meeting comes as the government announces plans to consult on a potential ban on minors using social media platforms in England. The proposed measure is aimed at preventing children under the age of 16 from accessing social media sites, which are already struggling to cope with the sheer volume of online abuse directed at young users. The Labour leader has long been critical of the tech industry’s handling of online safety issues and has called for greater regulation and accountability among platform providers. Starmer argues that it is unacceptable for companies like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to prioritize profits over people when it comes to protecting their young users. “Online safety is a matter of national urgency,” Starmer said in a statement after his meeting with tech executives. “We need to see real action from the industry, not just words and promises. It’s time for companies like Facebook and Twitter to take responsibility for keeping their users safe online.” Starmer’s demands for greater regulation have been echoed by other politicians, including Education Secretary Levelling Up, Victoria Baldwin who has also called for stronger measures to be put in place to protect young people from online abuse. The government’s consultation on a potential ban is due to report back later this year.