British teens could soon vote for the first time as Labour plans to modernise elections with mobile polling booths in schools, extended voting days, and new “hubs” in busy spots
British teens could soon be able to cast their first votes with schools to introduce mobile polling stations. Under Labour’s proposed shake-up of election rules, voting is to become modernised with extended in-person polling and new voting “hubs” that are being trialled.
Currently ruled out in several councils ahead of a possible nationwide rollout, the project reportedly “represents the first step in a longer-term strategy to modernise the voting experience”. Moreover, an official document reportedly outlined a range of measures designed to make it easier for people to vote.
With several councils preparing to pilot the new voting reforms in May’s local elections, the ultimate aim is to introduce these changes across the country by the next general election.
As a result, ministers are considering placing mobile polling stations in schools to help 16 and 17-year-olds cast their first votes. Labour’s proposals to “modernise the voting experience” the project also includes extending in-person voting over several days and creating convenient “hubs” in high-traffic locations.
Moreover, plans also involve setting up voting hubs in busy locations like shopping centres, and giving voters the flexibility to cast their ballots at any polling station within their local council area, rather than being limited to a single designated site, the Times reported.
Election officials would bring mobile polling booths and ballot boxes to universities, care homes, and community centres. Government sources reportedly suggested that schools could also be included in the programme if the voting age is reduced from 18 to 16.
Additionally, ministers are also considering opening polling stations before the usual election day on Thursday, possibly starting from the weekend before, according to the Times. Currently, voters must go to a specific assigned polling station between 7am and 10pm to vote in person.
As a result, the government reportedly aims to get approval for these pilot schemes in parliament by January. The official document said to have unveiled the project reportedly stated: “We are open to considering alternative models and digital improvements where local authorities can demonstrate clear rationale and alignment with the pilot objectives.
“Any such proposals will be subject to further discussion and approval.” Conversely, electronic or online voting have been ruled out as options for the new proposed plans, due to hacking fears.
Back in July, the UK government announced plans to allow 16-year-olds to vote in all UK elections. The plans have been aimed to enhance democratic engagement in an evolving world and help rebuild trust in UK democracy, the Daily Star previously reported.
As part of these plans, the government is taking additional steps to ensure eligible voters are not discouraged from voting. Voter ID requirements will be expanded to include UK-issued bank cards as acceptable identification at polling stations.
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