Simon Hart MP is pictured with Pembrokeshire and Carmarthenshire’s UK Youth Parliament (YP) members following a lively debate on ‘Votes at 16.’

Pictured from left are Keeley McGauley from Carmarthen, Gwen Griffiths from Pembrey, Caity Nutting from Pembroke and Joshua Beynon, who lives in Pembroke Dock, and who was on work experience in the MP’s office.

The meeting debated the wide range of topics that affect approximately 1.5 million young people across the UK. The members of the Youth Parliament from both counties spoke about why they believe 16 and 17-year-olds should get the vote.

After the meeting, Mr. Hart said: “I am genuinely open-minded about whether now is the right time for a reduction in the voting age, and the discussion certainly helped.

“It is important that young people actively engage in politics so they can become our leaders of tomorrow. It was refreshing to hear such engaging and thoughtful debate and I am sure that the our two counties are in capable hands with these representatives.

“Even though there are no imminent changes, I don’t see this as an issue that I would vote to prevent. However, I did stress to the MYPs that if this does happen, it won’t solve all of our problems overnight!”

Mr. Hart is now planning on meeting with each Youth Parliament later this year to continue the debate.