Young People: Government Policy
Debate between Baroness Coussins and Baroness Twycross
Baroness Twycross (Lab)
Going back to the report the Question relates to, housing did come up as one of the key issues, and the cost of being able to afford somewhere to live. Obviously, it is not just an issue of people needing to stay at home; they cannot envisage getting out of house shares or flat shares. I hope they will recognise that the Government’s planned investment in housing for first-time buyers and social housing reflects their need and desire to have their own home.
Baroness Coussins (CB)
My Lords, are His Majesty’s Government willing to reconsider extending the franchise to 16 and 17 year-olds?
Baroness Twycross (Lab)
We are planning to introduce votes for 16 and 17 year-olds because they can work, pay tax and serve the country in the Armed Forces. We think it therefore stands that they should be entitled to vote and have their say on the issues that affect them and their future. We will legislate to lower the voting age to 16 for all UK elections when parliamentary time allows.