THE NATIONAL YOUTH AGENCY: Votes at 16 campaign takes off

The campaign, a coalition of young people's groups, charities, pressure groups and political parties, including The National Youth Agency, wants the voting age lowered for all public elections. It's the biggest opportunity for electoral reform since 1969 when the voting age was reduced from 21 to 18.

At the launch, Bishop Roger Sainsbury, Chair of The National Youth Agency, said: "Young people have so much to contribute to British politics, but they often do not feel they are viewed as real citizens. As a result, they become disconnected and the quality of public decision-making suffers. The National Youth Agency believes that a massive step towards reconnecting young people with politics will be taken by lowering the voting age."

Kim Brown, a 17-year-old Pupil Governor at a Sixth Form College, said "Young people like me already hold many positions of responsibility. I help to decide how millions of pounds are spent on the educational policy of my college. I am considered responsible enough to do that, yet not to have a vote in an election."

Register support, keep informed and order the campaign postcards by emailing info@votesat16.org.uk. Visit the campaign website at www.votesat16.org.uk.

Discuss the issues with young people in schools, youth clubs and youth councils. Speak with your MP.

For more information contact Bill Badham, development officer at The NYA.

Tel: 0116 285 3742.

email: billb@nya.org.uk.