The stunt was planned to coincide with debates in the conference hall on reforming the political system.
Susan Nash, NUS Vice President (Society and Citizenship) said: "Despite pledging in speeches to fix our political system the Conservatives are the only main political party opposed to reforming the voting age. Both Labour and the Liberal Democrats support a reform to the voting age, recognising this change would inspire and empower thousands of young people who are currently shut out of the political system."
Students from the local colleges in Manchester joined NUS, demonstrating their support for the Votes at 16 campaign. The local students spoke of their frustration with the current system, and in particular the discrepancy that means they are expected to pay tax but have no say on where that money is spent.
Many of the students present were eager to see Citizenship classes enhanced with the ability for students to vote at 16. Similar actions were organised by NUS at the Labour party in Brighton, to commend the Labour party on their support for the campaign, and urge the Government to introduce Votes at 16 as part of the Constitutional Renewal Bill, which will be before parliament later this year.
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