Cat Smith on Votes at 16 extension in Wales

Cat Smith MP, Labour’s Shadow Minister for Voter Engagement and Young People,responding to the right to vote being extended to 16 and 17 year-olds in Wales, said:

“Today, the Welsh Labour Government have taken a significant step forward for our democracy by giving a voice to 16 and 17-year-olds in next year’s Senedd election.

“With Votes at 16 now in Wales and Scotland but not in England and Northern Ireland, there is now a fundamental inequality of rights in this country. 

“This situation is morally and politically unsustainable for the UK Government. It is time that 16 and 17-year-olds have equal rights across our country for all elections."

Ends

Notes to Editors

·       Campaigners, including the Electoral Reform Society, have called for Westminster parties to extend the franchise, as 16 and 17 year olds secure the right to vote in Wales today for Senedd elections.