Representation of the People Bill

Debate between Lord Balfe and Baroness Meyer

Committee stage
Wednesday 4th November 2026 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Meyer (Con)]

I am sorry, but changing the voting age should be a matter of principle, not electoral advantage.

I am particularly concerned about vulnerable children, including children in care, who, evidence tells us, are more susceptible to pressure or manipulation. Surely before extending the franchise to younger and potentially vulnerable people, the Government should establish whether they have the maturity and independence of judgment to exercise that right without undue influence.

[Lord Balfe (Con)]

As someone who grew up as a child in care, I can assure the Committee that I did not fit into the description put forward by the noble Baroness.

[Baroness Meyer]

The Government point out that, in Scotland, Wales, the Isle of Man, Jersey and Guernsey, children aged 16 can vote in certain elections. However, UK general elections determine who takes responsibility for our national defence and security, and so are quite different from elections in those smaller countries and areas. These are decisions on war and peace.

If the Government are confident that 16 is an appropriate voting age, surely they should welcome a proper assessment and explain why they are prepared to disregard scientific concerns about maturity and independent judgment—or is political advantage the real reason behind this proposal? I ask the Government to look at this amendment and bring forward some evidence. Frankly, some of us might even question whether we have fully acquired the maturity needed to vote at the age of 18.