MPs are set to debate a private member's bill that would lower the voting age to 16, with cross-party support from Labour, the Liberal Democrats, the SNP, Plaid Cymru, and the Greens. The bill, introduced by Labour MP Jim McMahon, has little chance of becoming law due to limited parliamentary time and government opposition.
Supporters argue that young people, who will be most affected by Brexit, deserve a say in their future. Liberal Democrat chief whip Alistair Carmichael said: 'It was a travesty that 16-to-17-year-olds weren’t allowed to vote in the EU referendum. With young people now set to be hit especially hard by an extreme Conservative Brexit, it’s more important than ever that we give them a say over their future.'
However, Prime Minister Theresa May has voiced opposition, stating: 'We expect people to continue in education or training until the age of 18, and I think that is the right point for the voting age.' Shadow minister Cat Smith dismissed this as 'unconvincing and deeply patronising,' accusing the Conservatives of ignoring young people during the general election.
The bill's second reading is scheduled for Friday, providing the first opportunity for MPs to debate the proposal. While similar measures have been implemented in Scotland for local and Scottish elections, and Wales is consulting on changes, the UK government remains opposed.
