The Labour manifesto promises improved citizenship education for young people followed by a free vote in Parliament on reducing the voting age to 16.
A Votes at 16 Spokesperson said: “We welcome the Labour party in joining other political parties, charities and young people themselves in support of votes at 16.
“A majority of young people support lowering the voting age. Young people want to be heard, including at the ballot box. At a time when we need to rebuild trust in politics engaging young people is vital to achieving a vibrant democracy.
“Over one million sixteen and seventeen year-olds are denied the vote in the forthcoming elections. We need immediate action from political parties early in the next Parliament to make votes a 16 a reality.
“Young people involved in the Votes at 16 Coalition have been at the forefront of the debate on voting age reform. Their campaigning has been vital in securing wider political support for extending the franchise.”
Susan Nash, NUS Vice President (Society and Citizenship), said: “Voting gives young people a stake in their communities, and a stake in our democracy. Whilst they can leave home, get a job, pay taxes, get married and join the army, 16 and 17 year olds cannot vote for the Government.
“A majority of young people support votes at 16 and we are delighted that Labour will offer a vote on giving 16 and 17 year olds a greater stake in their communities. Other political parties must now follow their lead and demonstrate their faith in and respect for younger citizens by working to ensure that 16 and 17 year-olds are no longer unnecessarily denied a stake in their democracy.”
Paul Monaghan Head of Social Goals and Sustainability at The Co-operative said: “This is a big boost for the campaign to get the voting age lowered. Sixteen year olds can already leave home, pay taxes, get married and join the armed forces but are unable to vote on decisions that affect them.”