Resolved –

This Council notes:

-       We are celebrating the centenary of women’s suffrage. 100 years on it is high time to take on the next challenge – Votes at 16.

-       Local Elections in Bradford this year is an opportunity to engage more people about the importance of voting and particularly encourage our young people to have their say on their future.

-       16-year-olds are denied the right to vote yet are legally allowed to: pay income tax and National Insurance, become a company director, obtain tax credits and welfare benefits, consent to sexual relationships and consent to medical treatment.

-       All 11 to 16-year-olds in England study citizenship education as a statutory part of the National Curriculum to develop their understanding of how to engage as responsible citizens in society.

-       Bradford is the youngest city in the UK and our youth are key to the district’s future success.

-       Free and fair elections are the cornerstone of our democracy.

This Council:

-       Asks our council officers to redouble their efforts to encourage people to vote and to register their vote before the deadline.

-          Supports the national ‘Votes at 16’ campaign.

ACTION:       Chief Executive/Interim City Solicitor