Sophie Wingate

The UK government plans to introduce a voluntary overnight social media curfew and restrictions on addictive features for 16- and 17-year-olds, complementing a forthcoming ban on social media use for under-16s. The measures include disabling infinite scrolling, requiring breaks for minors using AI chatbots, and tightening controls on harmful AI advice. Supporters argue the steps will improve sleep, wellbeing, and safety, while critics question their effectiveness, citing the ability of teenagers to override defaults and the need for stronger industry-wide design changes. The plans coincide with broader EU efforts to curb youth social media use and will require robust age verification to function reliably.

Downing Street described plans for Keir Starmer to nominate new Labour peers as routine after reports that up to 19 may be added to the House of Lords. The move comes as Conservatives and Liberal Democrats are expected to receive smaller numbers of new appointments. The government highlighted its recent abolition of hereditary peer voting rights and signalled potential additional reforms. Membership of the chamber remains under scrutiny due to its size, with Conservatives currently the largest group.

Tony Blair’s think tank warns Andy Burnham against raising capital gains tax to match income tax rates, arguing it would deter entrepreneurs and harm economic growth. Advocates for the increase, including Wes Streeting and Louise Haigh, say it could boost revenue while protecting genuine entrepreneurs. Burnham indicates some flexibility on tax policy within Labour’s existing commitments, suggesting potential alternatives such as higher warehouse taxes.