The UK government has confirmed it will continue with plans to strengthen online protections for children, despite growing criticism from some international stakeholders and major technology firms.

Downing Street has backed proposals that could introduce stricter controls on social media access for under-16s, arguing that digital platforms must do more to safeguard young users from harmful content and online risks. Officials say the measures are part of a wider effort to improve child safety in the digital age.

Technology Secretary Liz Kendall said the government's priority is protecting British children and families online. The proposals are expected to form part of a broader package of digital safety reforms that ministers intend to announce in the coming weeks.

The plans have attracted attention internationally, with some critics arguing that restrictions could create challenges for technology companies and raise questions about implementation. However, ministers insist that stronger safeguards are necessary as concerns continue to grow over children's exposure to harmful content and online interactions.

The government's consultation on child online safety reportedly received strong public support, with many respondents backing tougher measures to improve protections for younger users. Additional proposals under consideration include enhanced age-verification systems and stronger controls on interactions between children and unknown users online.

The issue is expected to remain high on the political agenda throughout the summer as ministers, regulators and technology companies continue discussions on the future of online safety regulation in the UK.