Young People, the Voting Age and Votes at 16

Abstract

This chapter explores the vibrant debates around lowering the minimum voting age to 16 in all public elections and referendums in the UK. It addresses fundamental questions surrounding the status of young people in society, citizenship, enfranchisement, candidacy age, voting age and debates about the right to vote at 16. The chapter first documents evolutions in enfranchisement through the centuries in Britain and draws comparisons with other nations. Next, it details the arguments expressed for and against reducing the voting age both inside and outside Parliament. Last, the chapter summarises the main points of contention in respect to votes at 16 in recent years, with reference to the Scottish independence referendum and subsequent developments, the ‘Brexit’ referendum and the growing focus on enfranchising 16- and 17-year-olds.