The news has been welcomed by the Votes at 16 Coalition, which includes The National Youth Agency. Its spokesperson said: "The government should listen loud and clear - Britain's young people want Votes at 16 and the time is right for voting age reform. Sixteen and 17-year-olds can pay taxes, join the army and get married. Not letting them vote for the government that sets taxes or sends them to war is unfair."
The Youth Citizenship Commission was launched to investigate the case for lowering the voting age and to examine ways of developing young people's understanding of citizenship and increasing their participation in politics. It has published a summary of responses to its consultation - Old Enough to Make a Mark? - on its website at www.ycc.uk.net.
