The government will hold a consultation on banning U16s from using social media, following a similar move in the UK.
Chief Minister Alf Cannan told the House of Keys that the UK government intends to introduce a ban by spring 2027.
The UK’s proposals would be introduced through regulations made under the Online Safety Act 2023, which includes a permissive extent clause allowing provisions to be extended to the Isle of Man.
“We support the objective of protecting children from online harm and are considering carefully the UK government’s proposed restrictions on social media access for under 16,” Mr Cannan said.
“Any local decision would need to be evidence based, legally robust, proportionate and practically enforceable.”
Timeline
The Chief Minister acknowledged that the consultation is unlikely to take place before the next general election.
“I think it is fair to say that is unlikely to take place before the next general election,” he said. “There is still time for us to consult, and I think it’s also important that we fully understand the content of those regulations.”
Mr Cannan confirmed that the Department of Home Affairs and Justice would lead on interpretation of the legislation.
The island has already strengthened protections through the Sexual Offences and Obscene Publications Act 2021, which came fully into effect in March 2024.
In January 2025, the Department of Education, Sport and Culture introduced a mobile phones policy in schools to reduce disruption and bullying.
While accepting the island may be treated like the UK anyway, Mr Cannan said the government would assess whether equivalent or adaptive measures would be appropriate for the Isle of Man, adding: “It is also important that we gather the views of children, young people and their parents and carers on this matter.”