Votes at 16
Have your say!
The “Votes at 16 Campaign” is a partnership of charities, young people’s organisations, pressure groups and political parties.
They believe that lowering the voting age is fair and consistent with other rights, will help reconnect young people with the political system, and makes sense now that citizenship education is on the curriculum.
They believe they have a real chance to change the law. So if you agree – why not sign up to their campaign. You can go to their website at: www.votesat16.org.uk
Below are a few arguments from either side of the debate to help you make up your mind.
(Taken from Votes at 16 campaign and Electoral Commission “16-18-21?”)
In favour of lowering the age to vote
Young people are:
- Old enough to pay taxes but not to decide which politicians spend them
- Old enough to get married but not considered responsible enough to vote
- Old enough to join the armed forces but not to elect the people who send you to war
Giving younger people the vote would build trust between politicians and young people and would encourage young people to trust the political system and get more involved in it
The introduction of citizenship education in schools means younger people will be able to make more informed decisions about who they want to vote for and why
In favour of keeping the current age to vote
Young people are:
- Not mature enough to fully understand the issues
- More easily influenced by others
- More likely to support parties and candidates with superficially attractive policies without thinking about the wider consequences
- Less able to take complex decisions that affect the lives of others
18 – 24 year olds display a low voting percentage, so what’s the point in lowering the age?
No other country in the European Union has a national voting age lower than 18
Younger people don’t need the right to vote: politicians should be listening anyway
16-18-21?
The Electoral Commission also want your views on:
When you should be allowed to vote?
And when you should be allowed to stand as a candidate?
Who are the Electoral Commission?
They’re an independent organisation that advises government and politicians on modernising the electoral process. They’re also involved in promoting public awareness of electoral matters, and regulating political parties. They aim to gain public confidence and encourage people to take part in the democratic process.
You can find out more about them on their website www.electoralcommission.org.uk
