HC Deb 25 March 2002 vol 382 cc557-8
29. Bob Spink (Castle Point)

What recent discussions the Electoral Commission has had with the Government on the reduction of the minimum age for voting. [43172]

Mr. A. J. Beith (representing the Speaker's Committee on the Electoral Commission)

The commission has been working closely with the Government's children and young people's unit on the "Y vote, Y not?" project, which is consulting young people about measures to encourage increased participation in elections. One suggestion is to reduce the minimum voting age. The commission has told the Government that it intends in due course to reconsider that as part of its programme of reviewing electoral law and practice.

Bob Spink

I am delighted by that reply, which represents a sound way forward. The right hon. Gentleman will know of the public's disenchantment with politics in general and of young people's disengagement in particular. It is right that we should consult widely with young people in considering that important issue.

Mr. Beith

The commission will note with interest the hon. Gentleman's comments, which are somewhat in line with my own views.

Mr. Tam Dalyell (Linlithgow)

If we are asking people to fight in Afghanistan at the age of 19, should not we think about allowing them to vote at 16?

Mr. Beith

I cannot disagree with the hon. Gentleman, but the commission has to take into account a variety of views. Several different views are represented even within the Government.

Sir Patrick Cormack (South Staffordshire)

Will the right hon. Gentleman take in one of those views now? Although it is absolutely correct to encourage young people to take an interest and participate in voting, many people feel that it would not be sensible to reduce the minimum voting age.

Mr. Beith

The hon. Gentleman's different point of view will have been noted by the commission.