Voting at 16

Viscount Brookeborough Excerpts

Thursday 24th July 2025 Lords Chamber

[Lord Khan of Burnley (Lab)]

My Lords, the noble Baroness makes a very strong point. I will take it away, because ultimately we want to get more people registered and able to take part in our democracy. We anticipate that there are between 7 million and 8 million eligible individuals who are currently unregistered or incorrectly registered to vote. We want to make sure that our policies identify and engage underregistered groups, and we will take all measures to ensure that that people can participate comfortably and positively.

[Viscount Brookeborough (CB)]

My Lords, I have the privilege of being a Lord Lieutenant and therefore presiding at oath-taking at citizenship ceremonies. We always make a point of telling people getting their citizenship that they should register to vote, since otherwise they cannot play a full part in our community life. Can the Minister tell us whether children are actually told, at school or in later education, that this is one way they can take part in our community life? I do not believe that they are.

[Lord Khan of Burnley (Lab)]

My Lords, I am going to repeat the answer I gave to my noble friend. Education in our schools is a vital part of implementing this policy. In relation to knowledge and skills, we will work with all stakeholders, including schools, colleges and universities, to ensure maximum participation. I never thought I would see the day when I would be advising a Lord Lieutenant.