Khan’s intervention aligns with calls from campaigners, including bereaved parents, who are urging Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to implement an Australia-style prohibition following a government consultation on children’s online experiences.
While endorsing a ban, Khan will also emphasise that it is not a complete solution, urging a ‘reimagining’ of social media and challenging tech companies to address the spread of misogyny on their platforms and adjust algorithms.
The mayor will announce a £1 million package of measures aimed at supporting boys and young men across London, warning that online misogyny risks creating a ‘lost generation’ and criticising ‘manosphere influencers’.
The funding package includes support for vulnerable boys in schools and pupil referral units, a new programme for fathers, and placing footballing mentors in communities to engage young men in discussions around toxic masculinity.