The White House has reportedly urged UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer not to introduce a blanket ban on social media access for children under the age of 16, raising concerns about free speech and parental responsibility.

Officials within the Trump administration have expressed opposition to proposals modeled on Australia’s strict age-verification laws, arguing that broad restrictions on social media platforms could limit freedom of expression and place excessive responsibility on governments rather than families.

According to reports, US officials believe parents should play the primary role in managing and monitoring their children's online activity, rather than relying on nationwide bans or restrictions.

The disagreement threatens to add further strain to relations between London and Washington following a series of recent diplomatic tensions. Relations have already been tested by comments from senior US figures regarding the death of British student Henry Nowak.

Last week, US Vice President JD Vance linked the 18-year-old's death to what he described as a “mass invasion of migrants,” prompting a strong response from Downing Street. UK officials accused the vice president of attempting to interfere in domestic political debates and inflame divisions.

Further controversy emerged when US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth used a D-Day anniversary event to criticize European governments over illegal migration, comments that were later challenged by British ministers.

The latest dispute highlights growing differences between the two allies on issues ranging from immigration and social policy to online regulation. While the UK government continues to examine measures aimed at improving children's online safety, the White House has signaled its preference for a more limited regulatory approach that prioritizes parental oversight and free speech protections.