Isle of Wight MP Bob Seely urged to lobby government on Votes at 16 campaign

THE ISLAND'S Labour youth officer wants MP Bob Seely to lobby the government on votes for 16 year olds. 

Willoughby Matthews, from the Isle of Wight Labour Party, has written to the leader of the Isle of Wight Council after a motion on the Votes at 16 campaign was supported at a full council meeting on January 17.

He has asked Cllr Dave Stewart to write to Mr Seely, urging him to lobby the government to support the motion. 

Mr Matthews also wants Mr Seely to write to the Electoral Commission and the British Youth Council to have the council added to the Votes at 16 Coalition.

In his letter, Mr Matthews said: "I would also like to ask for your help in encouraging young people to take an active part in our democratic society by developing a youth engagement project in educational institutions and as part of youth projects working with the Isle of Wight Youth Council, the youth service, schools and colleges; promote and continue to support votes at 16; encourage each Councillor to engage with students at local schools, colleges and youth projects as part of the youth engagement project."

* Cllr Stewart has since responded and said he has written to MP Bob Seely and the matter now rests with parliament.

Cllr Stewart said: "Meanwhile, I am focusing on delivery of our corporate plan and would welcome any contribution [Willoughby ] may wish to offer in support of this local priority."

He invited Mr Matthews to contribute to discussions at the local youth conference on March 6.