Girlguiding UK calls for political engagement of young people

The demand is part of a Plan for Participation published by Girlguiding UK, after research found that while 96 per cent of its members volunteered, less than half of those volunteers had any involvement with politics.

Other recommendations include: compulsory political education in schools; annual work experience targets for political parties; a monthly press conference allowing young people to interview politicians; and a requirement for every prospective political candidate shortlist to include someone under 25.

Denise King, chief executive of Girlguiding UK, said: "As we approach the next election, the first time many of our members will be able to vote, it is vital that everyone who cares about giving young people a voice listens carefully to their recommendations."

The plan and research findings are published in the report Political Outsiders: We Care, But Will We Vote? published by Girlguiding UK in partnership with the Fawcett Society and the British Youth Council.

Emily Beardsmore, chair of the British Youth Council, said: "I really support this report's recommendations. Young people themselves are taking action to address the problems they see in politics."