Join Professor Jane Green, Director of the Nuffield Politics Research Centre, as she dives into the historic move to lower the voting age to 16 in the UK. Discover how this shift could empower young voices and reshape political engagement. The conversation also touches on the suspension of MP Diane Abbott, exploring the implications for the Labour Party and the ongoing discourse around racism and identity. With her expert insights, Green sheds light on the complexities of these pressing political issues.
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insights INSIGHT
Youth Voter Engagement Is Fluid
Younger voters' political preferences are not fixed and can evolve with party engagement.
Their turnout depends largely on feeling represented and understanding party platforms.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Appeal To Young Voters Early
Don't assume 16- and 17-year-olds will vote similarly to older youth.
Focus on appealing and educating them to build lasting voting habits.
insights INSIGHT
Scotland's Votes for Teens Success
Scotland's inclusion of 16-17 year olds in votes has settled initial controversy.
Early voting experiences can boost turnout, but not necessarily wider political engagement.
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Today, the voting age at the next general election will be lowered across the UK to 16 for the first time.
Labour's election manifesto last year pledged to lower the voting age to 16 - in line with Scottish and Welsh elections. The Prime Minister has said 16 and 17-year-olds are "old enough to go out to work, they are old enough to pay taxes". The policy has been criticised by the Conservatives and Reform. Adam and Chris are joined by Professor Jane Green - Director of Nuffield Politics Research Centre and President of the British Polling Council.
And, MP Diane Abbott has been suspended by the Labour Party pending an investigation into comments she made about racism, the BBC understands. Labour said it would not be commenting "while this investigation is ongoing".
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Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. It was presented by Adam Fleming. It was made by Jack Maclaren with Anna Harris and Shiler Mahmoudi. The social producers were Joe Wilkinson and Jada Meosa John. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham
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