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  • Keir Starmer – 2026 Speech on Banning Social Media for Children

    Keir Starmer – 2026 Speech on Banning Social Media for Children

    The speech made by Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister, on 15 June 2026.

    Good morning.

    Now before I start on social media…  

    I want first to welcome the breakthrough reached last night between the US and Iran…   

    And I congratulate President Trump, the mediators from Pakistan and Qatar, and all those involved. 

    This is a hugely significant moment. 

    We have long called for deescalation.  

    And it is vital that all parties seize this opportunity…  

    To secure stability in the region… 

    And restore freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz…  

    Which, in turn will ease the economic pressures felt by people here in the United Kingdom and around the world. 

    We will now work closely with our partners to support this agreement… 

    And to ensure it turns into a durable, lasting peace. 

    **** 

    Now turning to social media…  

    And can I say how great it is to see so many people here… 

    Who played such a key role in the consultation. 

    And you know – some people are dismissive of processes like this. 

    But policymaking that doesn’t listen very carefully to the voices of those it seeks to serve… 

    That is not how this Government carries out its business. 

    And so, I just want to thank you for the role that you have all played… 

    And indeed – I want to thank all the people who have campaigned so courageously on this issue… 

    Including those who have done so after suffering terrible tragedy or loss…  

    Thank you. 

    Because today is a big moment for our country. 

    This is a big step… 

    Real change for our children and our future. 

    Because today – I can announce… 

    That the Government will ban access to social media… 

    For all children under the age of sixteen. 

    This is not something I do lightly. 

    And I will not present it as cost-free… 

    As if social media has brought no benefits to young people… 

    Because clearly that is wrong. 

    But Government is always about choices.   

    And its clear to me that a full ban is the right choice. 

    Now I come to it as a parent myself… 

    I know exactly the fears that we all feel when we’re thinking about this issue. 

    You know, all I have ever wanted for my own children, hand on heart… 

    Is for them to be happy and for them to be safe. 

    And I think that’s what any parent wants. 

    But I ask the question now… 

    Do we truly believe that social media creates a happy environment for our children? 

    Do we truly believe that it’s a place where they can feel safe? 

    I don’t think I even need to answer those questions – do I? 

    Every parent can see it with their own eyes… 

    Social media is making children unhappy. 

    It’s making it easier for bullies to harass and abuse them… 

    And it could even be harming their mental health. 

    Exposing them to content that is dangerous… 

    Because that’s what grabs the attention. 

    It’s designed to be addictive – of course it is. 

    Features like the infinite scroll… 

    They’re designed to lock you in for hours. 

    And if nothing else, there’s an opportunity cost to that. 

    It stops children doing their homework… 

    Reading… 

    Playing with their friends outside… 

    Going to bed at a decent hour.  

    Now that may not sound like much… 

    But these are the activities that help a child develop into an adult…

    We know how important they are.  

    We just never thought that something would come along to threaten them. 

    To be honest – I feel for this generation. 

    I think back to my own childhood – and yes, the early 1970s weren’t always a picnic. 

    But we didn’t have to deal with anything like this… 

    A technology that intrudes into every corner of a life… 

    Almost impossible to escape… 

    That records every mistake.  

    To deal with that, as a teenager… 

    On top of everything else… 

    That’s hard. 

    I feel for parents too. 

    I mean as a parent you always want to make the right choice for your child … 

    Which can face a little resistance in the teenage years… 

    Believe you me! 

    But parents just want to do the best for their kids… 

    In a way that’s what being a parent means. 

    But in this world, with this technology…  

    It is hard as a parent to know what to do. 

      And so, I think most parents will welcome this action… 

    I think they will welcome a clear and decisive choice… 

    And they will welcome a Government that stands by them… 

    That supports them to do the best for their children… 

    And that fights, for their happiness and safety… 

    Against the most powerful companies in the world. 

    Because this could be a fight – and to this point it has been a fight. 

    But it doesn’t have to be – I always prefer the politics of partnership… 

    And I fundamentally believe that we must harness the power of technology… 

    To build a stronger, fairer Britain. 

    But we must also protect our children. 

    And so, I want this message to be heard loud and clear… 

    I am not prepared to compromise… 

    On the safety and happiness of our children… 

    That is why this ban must happen… 

    That is why this ban will happen. 

    But it won’t be easy. 

    I mean some technology companies want us to think that social media is unchangeable… 

    Part of an almost natural order… 

    But we have to resist that kind of learned helplessness… 

    We have agency… 

    We can change it and we will. 

    Yes, it’s hard. 

    Hard to legislate for… 

    Hard to regulate… 

    Hard to enforce.  

    That’s why we’ve sought a wide range of views on this…

    That’s why we’ve listened to people… 

    Had a conversation…   

    We’ve looked carefully at the evidence… 

    Learnt from countries, like Australia, that are taking similar steps

    And we’re not just bringing forward a ban… 

    We’re going further. 

    We’re taking world-leading action on gaming services and livestreaming platforms… 

    Where, at the moment, strangers can contact any child unchecked. 

    Just think about that… 

    Is there a situation in the offline world… 

    Where you would just let your child pair up… 

    With a stranger… 

    An adult that you don’t know anything about? 

    No – so we’re taking action on that. 

    And look – we know perfectly well… 

    That we will have to adapt our approach as technology changes. 

    But, building on our experience with the Online Safety act… 

    We do have an understanding of how to apply age verification.  

    And because of powers we took in the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Act… 

    We can now move at pace… 

    And crucially – we can adapt as technology changes… 

    We have those powers. 

    So we are ready and confident that this ban can be effective. 

    Now – will it mean that no child ever logs onto social media again… 

    No. 

    But look – this might shock you – but it doesn’t shock parents of teenagers… 

    They get around other laws too! 

    But we don’t say – oh, look a teenager managed to  

    get a drink somehow… 

    So let’s not bother banning alcohol sales to children –

    We don’t do that do we? 

    That would be utterly ridiculous. 

    And so, I just don’t accept that argument.   

    Laws are rules… 

    But they are also an expression of our values… 

    They shape the social contract. 

    And so this will change the conversations that parents have… 

    And the expectations of children, over time… 

    It will make a huge difference. 

    It will make our children safer. 

    It will make our children happier. 

    It will give them more time, more security,  

    more freedom to grow up… 

    More opportunity. 

    And that, at the end of the day is what this Government is about. 

    It is why so many of the investments that we’ve made… 

    Are about supporting children and young people. 

    In childcare… 

    New nurseries, 

    Family hubs… 

    Apprenticeships… 

    Tackling child poverty… 

    Mental health support… 

    Technical Colleges… 

    In a youth guarantee for young people struggling to find work. 

    And today – it’s exactly the same approach… 

    Now this isn’t just about taking something away… 

    Because we’re also investing in music, culture, art, sport… 

    All those activities that we know are so important to childhood… 

    Particularly for children who do not usually get  

    those opportunities. 

    So when you put all this together… 

    These policies are not just fixes for our problem… 

    They are the building blocks of a different Britain altogether… 

    One where we know that our children are safe, happy and secure… 

    To go as far as their talent and their effort will take them. 

    That is all any parent wants… 

    They want to know that Britain will be better for their children… 

    that they will get a fair chance… 

    And that’s what these changes are about… 

    Restoring that hope for every family… 

    A stronger Britain… 

    A fairer Britain… 

    And above all… 

    A Britain where we invest in the future of every single child. 

    That is why we are taking this step… 

    And it is the right step for Britain. 

    Thank you very much.

  • PRESS RELEASE : New police data-sharing to target organised crime [June 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : New police data-sharing to target organised crime [June 2026]

    The press release issued by the Home Office on 15 June 2026.

    UK police to access European vehicle data in seconds, accelerating organised crime investigations.

    Foreign criminals involved in serious and organised crime, including those operating networks moving illegal migrants across continents, will be identified more quickly as UK police gain faster access to European vehicle data.

    As part of efforts to secure the border and tackle illegal migration, officers will be able to check overseas-registered vehicles and receive key information in seconds rather than days or even months. Previously, delays slowed investigations into criminal gangs involved in smuggling migrants, illicit drugs and illegal weapons into the UK.

    Officers can now carry out number plate checks through the EU’s Prüm data-sharing framework and receive results in around 10 seconds, rather than having to make individual requests to EU Member States. Where a match is found, the system provides vehicle keeper details and other key information, while also flagging stolen vehicles, helping police tackle crime, including vehicle theft, across the UK.

    This capability will strengthen intelligence on cross-border crime and improve the identification of vehicles linked to trafficking networks. Earlier visibility of vehicles and individuals will enable law enforcement to identify vehicles repeatedly used in smuggling activity, better understand the supply chains underpinning migrant smuggling, and carry out more targeted, intelligence-led operations to disrupt organised criminal networks.

    The system builds on the UK’s existing participation in the Prüm framework, which already enables the sharing of DNA and fingerprint data with European partners, and will be operational ahead of the second UK-EU Summit in Brussels.

    Crime and Policing Minister Sarah Jones said:

    This gives British police faster access to vital information and strengthens our work with European partners.

    Officers will be able to quickly link vehicles to suspects, spot stolen or cloned cars, and track the movements of smugglers across borders.

    For criminals, the message is simple: you can’t outrun the law by crossing borders. We will find you and bring you to justice.

    Detective Chief Constable Peter Ayling, National Policing Lead for International Crime at the NPCC, said:

    The ability to access keeper details of EU-registered vehicles is a welcome addition to a suite of other capabilities that help the UK tackle international crime.

    Crime is increasingly a global issue, and a swift and effective approach to exchanging information and intelligence with EU partners is critical for public protection.

    APCC Joint Leads on Serious Organised Crime, Lisa Townsend (Surrey PCC) and David Allen (Cumbria PFCC) said:

    Serious organised crime is an increasing and global threat that plays out in communities across our country. Too many lives are devastated by the international trade in drugs and weapons, so it is vital police have all available tools to tackle it.

    Quick access to EU data enabling police here to track the transnational movements of those involved in trafficking people, narcotics and lethal weapons into the UK will significantly support law enforcement in the fight against dangerous criminals whose illegal activities blight our local communities.

    Today’s expanded access to vehicle registration data builds on the success of earlier UK-backed operations. During Operation Mobile 3, a coordinated 2-week effort involving multiple countries, more than 44,000 vehicle checks led to the recovery of over 350 stolen vehicles and 1,000 vehicle parts, while supporting action against organised crime networks, including 17 suspected migrant smugglers.

    Vehicle data sharing under the Prüm system will launch with the Police Service of Northern Ireland before rolling out to forces across the UK in the coming weeks.

    Under a reciprocal arrangement, EU law enforcement authorities will be able to request access to UK Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency data. This will help ensure criminals fleeing the UK can be identified and brought to justice.

    All data sharing is subject to strict safeguards and is carried out in line with UK data protection law and the UK-EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement, ensuring information is used securely and appropriately.

  • NEWS STORY : Peter Vowles Appointed British High Commissioner to Nigeria

    NEWS STORY : Peter Vowles Appointed British High Commissioner to Nigeria

    STORY

    Peter Vowles has been appointed as the next British High Commissioner to the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has announced. He will succeed Dr Richard Montgomery and is expected to take up the role in September 2026.

    Vowles is currently HM Ambassador in Harare, a post he has held since 2023. He has previously served as HM Ambassador in Yangon and held senior roles in the former Department for International Development, including Director for Asia, the Caribbean and Overseas Territories, Country Director in Kenya and Deputy Country Director in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

    His earlier career included development and health-related roles in Bangladesh, Afghanistan and India, as well as work with the World Bank, the National Health Service management training scheme and Raleigh International. The appointment places him in one of the UK’s most significant diplomatic postings in Africa, with Nigeria remaining a key partner for the UK on trade, development, security and regional affairs.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Change of British High Commissioner to Nigeria – Peter Vowles [June 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : Change of British High Commissioner to Nigeria – Peter Vowles [June 2026]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 15 June 2026.

    Mr Peter Vowles has been appointed British High Commissioner to the Federal Republic of Nigeria, in succession to Dr Richard Montgomery CMG.

    Mr Vowles will take up his appointment during September 2026.

    Curriculum vitae

    Full name:  Peter Vowles 

    2023 to presentHarare, HM Ambassador  
    2022 to 2023FCDO, Transformation Director  
    2021 to 2022Yangon, HM Ambassador  
    2018 to 2021DFID, Director, Asia, Caribbean and Overseas Territories 
    2016 to 2018 Kenya, DFID Country Director 
    2013 to 2016 DFID, Head of Programme Delivery  
    2010 to 2013 Democratic Republic of Congo, Deputy DFID Country Director  
    2007 to 2010 India, Head of Global Partnerships  
    2006 to 2007 Afghanistan, Governance and Security Team Leader   
    2006Joined DFID  
    2005 to 2006 Mott MacDonald, Health and Development Consultant   
    2003 to 2005 Bangladesh, Population and Health Programme Director   
    2002 to 2003 Bangladesh, World Bank Health Adviser  
    2000 to 2002 National Health Service, Management Training Scheme   
    1999 to 2000 Raleigh International, Head of Projects  
    1996 to 1999 Zimbabwe, Policy and Programme Manager, Students Partnership Worldwide  
    1992 to 1993Zimbabwe, Teacher, Ministry of Education Sports and Culture
  • NEWS STORY : Roger Cook, Former Presenter of The Cook Report, Dies Aged 83

    NEWS STORY : Roger Cook, Former Presenter of The Cook Report, Dies Aged 83

    STORY

    Roger Cook, the investigative journalist and former presenter of The Cook Report, has died at the age of 83 following a short illness. His family said he died in hospital surrounded by his wife, Frances, and daughter, Belinda.

    Cook became one of British television’s best-known investigative reporters through The Cook Report, which ran on ITV from 1987 to 1999. The programme used undercover filming and direct confrontation to investigate criminality, fraud, corruption and organised crime, with subjects including drug trafficking, people smuggling, terrorism and the illegal ivory trade.

    Before moving into television, Cook worked in radio and created the BBC Radio 4 investigative programme Checkpoint. He received a BAFTA special award in 1998 for his contribution to investigative reporting and later wrote about his career in Dangerous Ground. Tributes have described him as a significant figure in British current affairs broadcasting.

  • NEWS STORY : White House Humiliated After Michelle Obama Slur Overshadows UFC Spectacle

    NEWS STORY : White House Humiliated After Michelle Obama Slur Overshadows UFC Spectacle

    STORY

    The White House has faced criticism after a UFC event held on the South Lawn was overshadowed by a derogatory remark made about former First Lady Michelle Obama. The incident happened during UFC Freedom 250, an event staged at the White House as part of celebrations linked to President Donald Trump’s 80th birthday and the 250th anniversary of American independence.

    The controversy followed heavyweight fighter Josh Hokit’s victory over Derrick Lewis, when he used his post-fight interview to praise Trump before making a baseless slur about Michelle Obama. The remark drew international criticism from media outlets and political opponents, with the event already facing scrutiny over the decision to stage a professional cage-fighting card at the White House. The same event also featured Justin Gaethje defeating Ilia Topuria to win the UFC lightweight title.

    Reports said Trump was ringside during the interview, while neither the White House nor UFC officials immediately issued a public rebuke of the comment. The incident added to wider criticism of the event, which had been promoted by supporters as a patriotic spectacle but condemned by critics as an inappropriate use of the White House setting for a heavily politicised sporting event.

  • NEWS STORY : MPs To Debate NHS Dentistry As Parliament Returns

    NEWS STORY : MPs To Debate NHS Dentistry As Parliament Returns

    STORY

    MPs are due to debate NHS dentistry in the House of Commons as Parliament begins a new week of business. The debate was selected by the Backbench Business Committee and follows continuing concern over access to NHS dental care in England.

    Parliamentary briefing material prepared for the debate says MPs are expected to consider patient access, the dental contract and the Government’s timetable for reform. Dental organisations have encouraged MPs to take part and to raise cases from their constituencies.

    The debate comes during a week in which MPs are also expected to consider the Cyber Security and Resilience Bill and the National Security (State Threats) Bill. Ministers will face scrutiny across health, security and infrastructure policy as the Commons returns to its regular business.

  • NEWS STORY : UK Joins European Leaders In Welcoming US-Iran Peace Deal

    NEWS STORY : UK Joins European Leaders In Welcoming US-Iran Peace Deal

    STORY

    The UK has joined France, Germany and Italy in welcoming the announcement of a memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran. The joint statement from the four European leaders described the agreement as a diplomatic breakthrough and thanked those involved in the negotiations.

    The leaders said the deal created an opportunity to restore regional stability and support the global economy. The statement also congratulated the United States, Iran and mediators including Pakistan and Qatar.

    The UK Government’s response places the agreement within wider foreign policy concerns over security, energy markets and Middle East stability. Ministers are likely to face questions over the implications for UK diplomacy, sanctions policy and future relations with allies in Europe and the Gulf.

  • NEWS STORY : UK And Japan Agree Economic Security Partnership

    NEWS STORY : UK And Japan Agree Economic Security Partnership

    STORY

    The UK and Japan have agreed a new economic security partnership following talks between Keir Starmer and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. The declaration covers cooperation on supply chains, emerging technologies, economic resilience and security challenges.

    The Government said the wider package included more than £18 billion in investment and economic gains, with commitments covering infrastructure, clean energy, financial services and advanced technology. The two Governments also agreed to deepen work on frontier technologies, including artificial intelligence, quantum, space and cyber security.

    The agreement also sits alongside defence cooperation through the Global Combat Air Programme, involving the UK, Japan and Italy. Ministers have presented the partnership as part of a wider effort to strengthen UK economic security and build closer ties with allies in the Indo-Pacific.

  • NEWS STORY : Ministers Consider Giving Business Rates Revenue To England’s Regions

    NEWS STORY : Ministers Consider Giving Business Rates Revenue To England’s Regions

    STORY

    The Government is considering proposals to allow England’s regional mayors to retain more of the revenue raised from business rates. The plan is part of wider work on fiscal devolution and would be intended to give regional leaders more control over economic development and public services.

    Local Government Secretary Steve Reed has said regions should benefit from growth generated in their areas, while retaining arrangements to prevent poorer areas being disadvantaged. The proposals could be developed further by the Treasury ahead of the Budget.

    Business rates remain a significant source of revenue and have been the subject of long-running debate among councils, high street businesses and hospitality firms. Any reform would be scrutinised for its impact on regional inequality, local budgets and the balance of power between Whitehall and devolved institutions in England.