The British government announced plans to allow 16 and 17-year-olds to vote in all UK elections, pending parliamentary approval. This initiative aims to standardise voting rights across the UK, aligning with Scotland and Wales. Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner stated the government is working to “break down barriers to participation” in democracy. The 2024 general election saw a turnout of 59.7%, the lowest since 2001. Research cited by the House of Commons library indicates lowering the voting age to 16 does not affect election outcomes, with younger voters more likely to participate. The reforms also propose expanding voter ID options and tightening political donation rules to prevent foreign interference. Oh dear! I wouldn’t trust a young person to turn up for anything, would you?
