Young People: Government Policy Debate

Full Debate: Read Full Debate

Lord Anderson of Swansea

Main Page: Lord Anderson of Swansea (Labour - Life peer)

Young People: Government Policy

Lord Anderson of Swansea Excerpts
Thursday 31st October 2024

(2 days, 22 hours ago)

Lords Chamber
Read Full debate Read Hansard Text Watch Debate
Baroness Twycross Portrait Baroness Twycross (Lab)
- View Speech - Hansard - - - Excerpts

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.

Lord Anderson of Swansea Portrait Lord Anderson of Swansea (Lab)
- View Speech - Hansard - -

My Lords, I was very happily surprised to learn that one of my grandsons, who lives long-term in Prague, is able to take the scheme. Is the scheme not a valuable contribution to people beyond our shores and should not this be noted?

Baroness Twycross Portrait Baroness Twycross (Lab)
- View Speech - Hansard - - - Excerpts

I was not aware that it was available to young people in Prague, but I welcome that point. The role of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme in opening up activities to young people who might otherwise not have the opportunity to take part in them is recognised on a cross-party basis.