Whilst I am broadly supportive of the case for votes at 16 and 17, I believe this should be part of a full review of the franchise later in the Parliament and should not be a rushed amendment due to pressure from the SNP.
During recent debates on the EU Referendum amendments I was one of several MPs to speak out in favour of 16 and 17 year olds being able to vote but through the correct processes. The last time votes at 16 and 17 were considered there was a lengthy debate – not one that involved 3 hours of conversation surrounding poorly constructed amendments that were rushed and ill thought through.
I have been lobbying the Cabinet Office Minister John Penrose MP with other MPs and we believe that a formal review of the franchise (including votes at 16 and 17) will be undertaken with Government time. I will do all that I can to espouse this case at that point. I agree with the Minister that votes at 16 and 17 at this Referendum could be used by those who are either supportive or opposed to Membership of the EU as an excuse for the result. This would ultimately undermine our cause. I therefore look forward to speaking in the future on this matter.