Lib Dems want young people to have vote at 16
March 28, 2003 12:50 PM
Lowering the voting age, combined with citizenship lessons in schools, will encourage more young people to participate.
In today's meeting of Leeds City Council, Lib Dem Councillors are calling on the Government to lower the voting age to 16 in order to encourage young people to become more involved in formal politics. Cllr Jim Souper (Weetwood) has put forward a White Paper motion supporting the Votes at 16 campaign.
Cllr Souper said 'Many young people are cynical of party politics and don't get involved in the political process. Only 39% of 18-24 year olds voted at the last General Election, but polls show that young people want more of a say in the way the country is run. Their interest in issues such as the conflict in Iraq and student fees show that young people are willing to speak up when they feel they can have some influence.'
'I think lowering the voting age, combined with citizenship lessons in schools, will encourage more young people to participate. It sends a message to youngsters that we value their ideas and want them to contribute. If they feel that they can really make a difference there's much more incentive to take part. At the age of 16 young people can get married, join the armed services, and pay tax, yet we don't allow them to vote.'
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