The UK government announced a significant change in the voting age, lowering it to 16, which will allow approximately 1.5 million additional teenagers to vote in elections. This change aims to enhance democratic participation and aligns the voting age with Scotland and Wales by the next elections, expected by summer 2029. Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner stressed the importance of restoring trust in democracy, while Rushanara Ali pointed out that young individuals already contribute to society and deserve voting rights.
The announcement of lowering the voting age to 16 allows around 1.5 million more teenagers to participate in UK elections, aligning with Scotland and Wales by 2029.
Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner emphasized that restoring public trust in democracy is crucial, allowing more citizens to participate and engage with UK democratic processes.
Rushanara Ali highlighted that sixteen-year-olds already contribute to society by working, paying taxes, and serving in the military, thus deserving the right to vote.
The upcoming Elections Bill represents the most significant update to the electorate since 1969 when the voting age was lowered from 21 to 18.
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