- A parliamentary deadlock over protecting children from harmful online content has been resolved, with peers backing down after the government committed to new social media restrictions for under-16s.
- Ministers pledged to implement age or functionality restrictions for those under 16, focusing on addictive features, harmful algorithmic content, and stranger pairing, irrespective of the ongoing public consultation.
- Lord Nash, a Conservative peer, led the pressure for these curbs, stating they would address issues that have led to significant harm and deaths among children.
- Education minister Baroness Smith of Malvern confirmed a tightened timeframe for delivery, including a three-month progress report and a 12-month timeline for making regulations.
- Campaigners and parents welcomed the commitment as a 'massive step forward', though some, like Liberal Democrat peer Lord Clement-Jones, criticised the government's pace, arguing for quicker implementation.
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