Lib Dems seek to defeat David Cameron on ‘Votes at 16’

The Liberal Democrats could pave the way for 16-year-olds to vote in local council elections as David Cameron is expected to face a further defeat in the House of Lords on Wednesday.

Lib Dem peers have tabled an amendment to the Government's 'Cities' Bill to give under 18s the right to choose their local councillors. Labour is expected to support the amendment, which would mean yet another defeat for the Government in the second chamber.

The move is part of the party's wider campaign to allow 16 and 17-year-olds to vote in the EU Referendum and General Elections.

Liberal Democrat Constitutional Spokesperson Lord Tyler said:

"There is no reason to deny 16 and 17-year olds the right to vote. They are subject to all the laws of the land and pay taxes as the rest of us.

"They can become company directors, get married and join the army. They are full members of society and should be treated as such when it comes to voting.

"The Scottish Referendum showed that 16 and 17-year-olds are more than capable of taking part in the democratic process, this right should now be extended to those young people in England and Wales.

"This is an important first step in the Liberal Democrat fight to make sure 16-year-olds have the vote in the EU Referendum and General Elections.

"Conservative cuts will hit young people the hardest - it is only fair they get the chance to have their say on these measures."

The amendment, tabled by Lib Dem Constitutional Spokesperson Lord Tyler, to the Cities and Local Government Devolution Bill means 16 and 17 year olds would be entitled to vote at all local Government elections in England and Wales.

Labour has signed up to support the amendment. This means it is very likely to be successful in the House of Lords. Should the vote succeed, the issue will be sent to the Commons, where it is up to the Government to try and persuade MPs to vote to remove the proposals. The Lib Dems and others will fight to keep the amendment.