London, July 18 (V7N) – In a major electoral reform move, the United Kingdom government has announced a plan to lower the voting age to 16, allowing teenagers to vote in general elections, including for the position of Prime Minister, as well as in local elections in England and Northern Ireland.

The move has sparked intense political debate but has been met with enthusiastic support from young people across the country, according to a report by BBC News.

Historically, the voting age in the UK has been 18 since it was last changed in 1969, when it was reduced from 21. Although Scotland and Wales already allow 16-year-olds to vote in local council and parliamentary elections, this marks the first time that voting rights could be extended to 16- and 17-year-olds nationwide, including in UK parliamentary elections.

Electoral Reform Minister Ali stated that the government aims to implement the change before the next general election, which is scheduled for 2029 — though early elections remain a possibility.

"This is about ensuring that the younger generation has a say in shaping the nation’s future," said Minister Ali, emphasizing the importance of early political engagement among youth.

Young Britons have responded positively. One 17-year-old said, “If I had the opportunity to vote at 16, I could have started engaging with political and economic issues much earlier.” Another added, “This is a vital opportunity to have a voice in decisions that affect our education, healthcare, and employment.”

However, the proposal has met strong opposition from the Conservative Party. Shadow Minister Paul Holmes labeled the move as "extremely confusing" and "misleading," arguing that such significant constitutional changes require broader consensus and public debate.

If passed, this change would represent the biggest shift in British electoral policy in over 50 years, expanding democratic participation to millions of young citizens.

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