Ban Instagram? You must be kidding.

Ban Instagram? You must be kidding.

Author: The New Statesman March 26, 2026 Duration: 23:16

What does the Instagram and YouTube verdict mean for the UK's proposed social media ban?


A California jury has found Meta and Google liable in a case that accused them of building intentionally addictive platforms.


Here in the UK, the government is consulting on whether to ban children from using social media. Australia and Spain have already implemented similar bans, and France has backed a ban for under-15s.


So, are the social media giants facing a reckoning? And should the government intervene in our kids’ social media use?


Anoosh Chakelian is joined by Hannah Barnes.


READ: Parents must also take responsibility for online safety

https://www.newstatesman.com/culture/social-media/2026/03/parents-must-also-take-responsibility-for-online-safety

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Each weekday, Daily Politics from the New Statesman cuts through the noise of the 24-hour news cycle to offer something more substantial. Hosted by Anoosh Chakelian and Oli Dugmore, along with the wider New Statesman team, this isn't just a recap of headlines. Instead, it provides sharp reporting and clear analysis from the heart of Westminster, paired with thoughtful conversations that look beyond the capital to the cultural and societal forces shaping the political landscape. You'll hear from the magazine's own journalists and a range of expert guests who help explain not just what is happening, but why it matters. The perspective is inherently progressive, rooted in the New Statesman's long tradition as a leading voice in British political commentary. Tuning into this podcast means getting a deeper, more considered understanding of the day's events, delivered with clarity and insight. It’s designed for anyone who feels that politics is too important to be left to soundbites, offering a reliable and engaging daily digest that makes complex issues accessible without oversimplifying them.
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