Written question asked by Bob Spink (Conservative) on Monday, 12 July 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 15 July 2004. It was answered by Chris Leslie (Labour) on Thursday, 15 July 2004 on behalf of the Department for Constitutional Affairs.

Dept for Constitutional Affairs

Question: To ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Department for Constitutional Affairs, what measures are being taken to encourage participation of the 16 to 21 age-group in the next general election; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: Bob Spink: To ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Department for Constitutional Affairs what measures are being taken to encourage participation of the 16 to 21 age-group in the next general election; and if he will make a statement. [184219] Mr. Leslie: The Government are keen to ensure that all young people are encouraged to play as full a part as possible in all our democratic processes. A range of initiatives, such as citizenship education in schools and the UK Youth Parliament, assist this aim. During recent elections, we have sought to bring this learning to life for young people by working with partners to provide mock elections in schools and colleges. We will consider how to take forward such initiatives in future elections. In addition, the independent Electoral Commission, whose remit includes educating and informing people on electoral matters, makes special efforts to target young people, especially those who are on the point of attaining the right to vote.

Secondary information