Social media executives deny platforms are inherently addictive to children

The UK government is considering following Australia’s example and making social media access illegal to children under 16 years old. Photograph: Matt Cardy/Getty Images

Executives from three social media companies have denied their platforms are inherently addictive to children and young people, in a combative appearance before MPs in Westminster.

Representatives from Meta, Roblox and TikTok faced robust questioning from the cross-party education select committee about the impact of screen time and social media on children.