Coalition spokesperson Tom Burke said: "Devolving responsibility for the voting age is an unnecessary delay in achieving real change. Our message to Gordon Brown is clear - don't dither with devolution; just do it.
"The last few months have eroded public trust in politics, especially among young people. The commission's evidence shows that young people overwhelmingly back Votes at 16. If we want to re-engage young people with political life we need to demonstrate that their views matter at the heart of democracy - the ballet box.
"The exclusion of 16- and 17-year-olds from the right to vote cannot be justified. They can leave home, get a job, pay taxes, get married and join the army. Yet they cannot vote for the government that sets taxes or sends them to war."
Register Now to Continue Reading
Thank you for visiting Children & Young People Now and making use of our archive of more than 60,000 expert features, topics hubs, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's Included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Email newsletter providing advice and guidance across the sector
Already have an account? Sign in here
