Why are there restrictions I didn't ask for on a handset I paid for?

[Wasteofmytime]

Safe search.  

I didn't ask for it, I don't want it, I'm not giving them credit card details and I don't have the time or patience to take id to a store.

Can it simply be removed or do I have to change network and take EE to the small claims court for my money back? 

This is some fascist Draconian BS.

[bristolian]

Age verification is not imposed on the phone, but the SIM.

It is also a regulatory requirement, rightly imposed by Ofcom and applicable to all UK telecoms operators.