Students at Cirencester College were tested by North Swindon MP Justin Tomlinson during a debate on whether the voting age should be lowered to 16.
Two pairs of students led the debate, arguing for and against the proposition that the voting age should be lowered.
In support of motion the argument was made that there were many responsibilities which 16 and 17 year olds could have – such as getting married, joining the armed forces and having children – and if 16 and 17 year olds were trusted with these responsibilities, then they should be able to vote.
Students arguing against the motion referred to the UN definition of a child as anyone under 18, as well as scientific research which suggested people don’t fully mature mentally until they are 18. This was followed up by concerns about how politicised education is becoming and how this might influence young voters.
The fact that young people can still be politically active and represented was also put forward as a counter argument. 16 and 17 year olds can still protest, sign petitions, join political parties and lobby the Government. There are also charities and organisations which can advocate on issues affecting young people, and MPs have a duty to represent all their constituents.
The pair who wanted to see votes at 16, made the compelling argument that current political decisions were affecting their future. However, this was challenged back with the point that political decisions on childcare and education affect toddlers and very young children, but we aren’t advocating giving them the vote!
After all four of the students had given their speeches, Justin scrutinised both sides before congratulating them on their well-researched and passionate speeches.
Justin Tomlinson MP said: “I was very impressed with all four speakers, who had clearly done their research and found relevant evidence for their arguments. It is great to see young people so politically engaged, and I hope this is a trend that continues. Maybe one day they will be speaking in the House of Commons.”
