House of Lords tops headlines as MPs push limits on under-16 social media; peers back the ban and debates on reform rage. Notable figure: Lord Mandelson facing Epstein scandal fallout.
UK authors and artists protest proposed copyright changes allowing AI firms to use protected works without permission. Campaigns include publishing an 'empty' book and calling for licensing reforms, amid government consultations and industry outrage over potential impacts on creative livelihoods.
As of April 2026, multiple countries including the UK, Turkey, Australia, and others have passed or are considering laws to restrict social media access for children under 15 or 16. The UK government has committed to imposing age restrictions for under-16s following consultations, while Turkey has passed a law banning under-15s from social media accounts. Australia’s ban on under-16s began in December 2025, with other nations planning similar measures.