Many countries, including Ireland, are considering following in the footsteps of Australia, which introduced a world-first ban in December.

In a press release announcing the consultation, the UK’s Department for Science, Innovation and Technology acknowledged that some children’s charities “have warned that a blanket ban could drive children towards less regulated corners of the internet or leave teenagers unprepared when they do come online”.

The consultation is therefore seeking views on “a full range of options” including mandatory overnight curfews or restrictions on “addictive features” like infinite scrolling and autoplay.

Under-16s could also be restricted from using AI chatbots under the proposals.

Liz Kendall, the UK’s technology secretary, said: “The path to a good life is a great childhood, one full of love, learning and play. That applies just as much to the online world as it does to the real one.

“We know parents everywhere are grappling with how much screen time their children should have, when they should give them a phone, what they are seeing online, and the impact all of this is having.

“This is why we’re asking children and parents to take part in this landmark consultation on how young people can thrive in an age of rapid technological change.

“Together, we will create a digital world that gives young people the childhood they deserve and prepares them for the future.”

The three-month consultation will run until 26 May 2026.