In a significant change to the nation’s democratic system, the British government declared on Thursday that it intends to allow 16 and 17-year-olds to vote in all UK elections.
Subject to parliamentary approval, the government claimed the proposed amendments would bring voting rights in the UK into line with those in Scotland and Wales, where younger voters already cast ballots in devolved elections.
“We are taking action to break down barriers to participation that will ensure more people have the opportunity to engage in UK democracy,” said Angela Rayner, the deputy prime minister.
According to a parliamentary study, the 2024 general election was the lowest turnout since 2001, at 59.7%.
