New Clause 1 — Local Government Constitutional Convention

Part of Cities and Local Government Devolution Bill [Lords] – in the House of Commons at 6:15 pm on 7 December 2015.

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Photo of Norman Lamb Norman Lamb Liberal Democrat Spokesperson (Health) 6:15, 7 December 2015

I absolutely agree with the hon. Lady about that. The argument made by Conservative Members could be used, by logical extension, to deny democracy entirely or to deny trial by jury. I seek to oppose both those logical extensions and to make the case again for 16 and 17-year-olds to have the right to vote. In this Bill, we are talking about their having a say in the election of their local councillors, for goodness’ sake. If the Conservatives seek to deny 16 and 17-year-olds such a basic right, in their own local community, I strongly oppose them on that. The Government say this issue deserves further discussion, and I welcome that, but why can they not just get on with it, accept the principle and legislate for it today?