The new Ofcom regulations have been designed to help keep children safe online and will require social media and other internet platforms to block children's access to harmful content starting in July, or they will face significant fines.

Ms Eastwood said: "Today’s announcement may be a step forward, but it’s far too late. The Government has repeatedly failed to act with the urgency needed to protect children online. Instead of leading, it continues to follow, and children are paying the price.

“Ofcom’s rules are welcome in principle, but their long-overdue implementation highlights how slow and reactive the Government has been. We need bold, decisive action to hold tech giants accountable, not just vague intentions, more reviews and voluntary features.

“It’s concerning to hear the Technology Secretary citing TikTok’s ‘bedtime’ feature as something to watch and emulate. The Government should be setting the standard, not waiting for Big Tech to act. Parents are expected to set firm boundaries, even when unpopular, because it’s in their children’s best interest. Yet online, parents are powerless as online platforms profit from the addictive nature of children’s use. That’s why Government action is essential.

“It’s high time the Government took real responsibility, starting by raising the digital age of consent. The need couldn’t be clearer.”