UK Labour Plans Vote Age Cut to 16 Amid Criticism

The Labour government, led by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, has announced plans to lower the voting age to 16 ahead of the next general election, aiming to increase youth participation in democracy. This proposal has faced strong criticism from conservative figures, including Nigel Farage and Tory politicians, who accuse Labour of cynically attempting to sway election outcomes and point out inconsistencies in granting voting rights without other adult responsibilities. Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner defended the policy, emphasizing that 16-year-olds work and pay taxes and should therefore have a say in how their money is spent. Alongside voting age reforms, Labour plans to tighten controls on foreign political donations and strengthen punishments against intimidation of candidates. Separately, Nigel Farage has criticized Sir Keir Starmer's recent deal with Germany on tackling illegal migration, calling it ineffective and accusing Labour of betraying Brexit principles by aligning more closely with EU regulations. Farage also condemned the current immigration system, warning of its social and economic strains, and stating that voters expect Starmer's government to address rising migration challenges effectively.