The councillor leading calls for the voting age to be lowered to 16 says that the campaigns for Black Lives Matter and climate change show that young people should get a vote.

Malcolm Brown, leader of the Liberal Democrat group at Cornwall Council, proposed a motion last year that the council should try and get the voting age lowered in time for the next local elections next May.

A report on the matter is due to go before the council’s constitution and governance committee today (Wednesday) to consider the matter.

Officers say that it could be difficult to make the change in time for May’s elections as it would require a change in legislation and is also complicated by Cornwall Council also having to organise the elections for up to 2,000 town and parish council seats.

But Cllr Brown said that he would be looking to press ahead and get the council to lobby government to make the change or use Cornwall Council as a pilot for lowering the voting age.

The councillor for St Austell Bethel said: “Cornwall Council made a similar request four years ago which unfortunately was not taken up. However, the Government is likely to be proposing various constitutional changes this year and it seems a good time to raise this issue again. Voting at 16 is now allowed for some elections in Scotland and Wales; it would be good if we could now catch up our Celtic colleagues.

Falmouth Packet:

Cllr Malcolm Brown

“I believe young people aged 16 and 17 can be trusted with a vote. Many are very aware of a wide range of current political issues including the climate emergency where they have been leading the charge. I was very impressed with the young people who gathered outside County Hall on Fridays before the current pandemic started. I have also observed that many of those  supporting the Black Lives Matter campaign are young.

“The Government say that they want to re-engage right across the community. This is an ideal opportunity for them to show commitment to young people. Cornwall Council will be very happy to help them do that.”

When it was reported last week that the council would be considering lowering the voting age many people gave their comments.

One reader said: “I think it’s too young too. How about giving them a youth council of there own which could put suggestions up to the local councils with issues and concerns that they have about? The youth should have a voice – just not the vote – they are the future and have so much to give. Let’s all work together to make a better future for everyone.”

Another said: “No, no, no much too young, they need to live a bit longer, work and pay taxes and not just be guided by what social media dictates what they should vote for or be influenced by teachers or college lecturers.”