Votes at 16 'backed by most young people' in Wales

Supporters say lowering the voting age will engage young people in politics

Most young people in Wales want the voting age lowered to 16, according to consultation by the Welsh assembly.

With more than 10,000 people aged 11 to 25 responding, 53% wanted votes at 16, with 29% saying no and 18% unsure.

Presiding Officer Dame Rosemary Butler said it gave a "crucial insight" into young people's views.

But Conservative Monmouth MP David Davies has warned votes at 16 would undermine the legal protection 16 and 17-year-olds currently receive.

'Right support'

The report comes as the UK government plans further devolution which will including giving the assembly control over its own elections, including the voting age currently set at 18.

Supporters of a lower voting age claim it will boost young people's interest in politics, pointing to the Scottish independence referendum in which 16 and 17-year-olds were allowed to vote.

Dame Rosemary said she was "inspired" by many of the comments given by young people in the survey, including one who spoke of "citizens playing their part as equally as politicians".

"Young people are integral to the process of shaping the future of our nation - we must give them the right support so that we optimise their contribution," she said.

But she added politicians had to tackle the "information vacuum", as many young people said they wanted to vote but did not understand the political process.