British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has told social media executives that “things can’t go on like this” during a Downing Street meeting focused on online safety.

He convened senior leaders from Meta, TikTok, Google, Snapchat’s parent company, and X on Thursday morning as the government considers tougher regulation of social media platforms.

Proposed measures include an Australia-style ban for users under 16, along with possible restrictions on features such as infinite scrolling.

The government is currently consulting on introducing a fixed minimum age for social media use, alongside broader changes aimed at improving online safety standards.

“Things can’t go on like this, they must change because right now social media is putting our children at risk. In a world in which children are protected, even if that means access is restricted, that is preferable to a world where harm is the price of participation,” Starmer stated.

“I am determined we will build a better future for our children, and look forward to working with you on this. I do think this can be done. I think the question is not whether it is done, the question is how it is done.”

The Prime Minister also urged social media companies to deliver “real world changes” to improve the safety of children on their platforms.

Starmer has previously been cautious about proposals for a social media ban, warning that it could drive young users toward the dark web and leave teenagers less prepared to use digital technology once they turn 16.

Most major social media platforms currently enforce a minimum user age of 13 in the UK.

However, he is now facing increasing political pressure, including from within his own party, where more than 60 Labour MPs have signed a letter backing a ban.

Despite his earlier reservations, many in government believe he will ultimately support such a measure once the consultation process concludes this summer.