Starmer tells Apple and Google to ban nude images on children's phones

Tech companies such as Apple and Google have been asked by the UK government to block access to naked images on smartphones and other devices for under-18s.

Sir Keir Starmer has told firms to either activate built-in features or update operating systems to prevent children from taking, sending or viewing sexually explicit images on their phones and other devices.

Speaking at London Tech Week, the prime minister said: "This is not an impossible challenge. These are some of the most innovative companies in the world and I believe they can solve it."

The government said it will bring forward legislation to force firms to activate the features if they do not comply voluntarily within three months.

This could include fines or, as a last resort, criminal liability for companies which do not comply.

The prime minister said the changes would apply to both existing and newly-sold smartphones and tablets in the UK.

"Legislation could cover operating system providers and others in the supply chain, such as retailers, and will not affect the use of devices owned and used by adults who verify their age," he said.

In response, a Google spokesperson said it was "deeply committed to protecting children online."