[user104658]

Originally Posted by Jamesy

Yes, although this is something that should be addressed for all votes. I believe if someone is of age to get married, get a job, learn to drive etc, they should also have the right to vote. I've met some very intelligent and mature 16-17 year olds. Since voting is still a choice in the UK, it will continue to be like many votes where a certain percentage of people do not vote because they're not interested, not like it would automatically mean 16-17 year olds are forced to vote. It's a choice, just like the rest of us always have a choice to vote.

I think that's the important point, really. Most realistic scenario on giving 16 year olds the vote is that the ones who are politically interested will turn up, and the ones who aren't will simply not bother, so it can only be a good thing.

I wish the adults who aren't really politically interested wouldn't show up to vote "because people fought for our votes so we should use them". Meh. Yes, but the responsibility there isn't just turning up on the day, its keeping politically informed in the first place. My wife had a friend texting her on Thirsday, stood outside the polling station, no idea what she was going to vote for, and asking about the implications. It's depressing.