Democracy and Unelected Strong Leaders

Lord Davies of Gower Excerpts

Thursday 3rd April 2025 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent (Lab)]

As I have said before, it is always a mistake to disagree with the noble Lord, so I agree absolutely.

[Lord Davies of Gower (Con)]

My Lords, in addition to the poll published by FGS Global in January, research by the University of London has suggested that some of those who question democracy do so because they do not feel that they have a stake in our society. What plans do the Government have to promote the engagement of young people in particular in civic activities that will give them the sense of community and belonging which is so important to democracy?

[Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent (Lab)]

When I was a Member of the other place, it was my favourite thing to visit schools, and every one of us, in both places, should actively engage with all young people. One of the reasons I personally am so in favour of votes at 16 is that I have seen the barrier to voting for those in their 30s, 40s and 50s who have never voted and may think it is a scary thing to do. If they do it together, as classes, it gives them the opportunity to engage. On that note, happy Easter.