SAUWS notes: 1. That currently 1.5 million 16 and 17 year olds are denied the vote in public elections in the 2. UK. 3. That the campaign to lower the voting age is supported by thousands of young people 4. across the UK and that the Votes at 16 Coalition consists of a wide range of youth and democracy organisations. SAUWS resolves; 1. To join the Votes at 16 Coalition; 2. To write to the Leader of the Council, local MPs, local MSP’s and the local media to inform them of this decision and ask them to support the campaign; 3. To promote this policy through its communications; 4. To run activities to raise awareness of and support for Votes at 16 in the local area.
Why you think it is important
SAUWS believes; 1. 16 and 17 year olds are knowledgeable and passionate about the world in which they live and are as capable of engaging in the democratic system as any other citizen; 2. Lowering the voting age to 16, combined with strong citizenship education, would empower young people to better engage in society and influence decisions that will define their future; 3. People who can consent to medical treatment, work full-time, pay taxes, get married or enter a civil partnership and join the armed forces should also have the right to vote.
Is there anything else you think we should know?
This is an old policy due to lapse. It can be renewed or allowed to lapse.
I have read the guidance on what makes a good policy on the student council page
YES