Too young to cast their vote

From: G Wright, Fieldside Court, Tadcaster.

AMONGST other items, those under the age of 18 are not permitted, by law, to purchase cigarettes, alcohol, razor blades, fireworks and scissors.

There are, however, proposals by the SNP and Ed Miliband to lower the age at which one can vote to 16. Only politicians could consider those not thought to be sufficiently mature to buy sparklers or own a pair of scissors should be allowed to vote on Scottish devolution and the future of the UK in Europe.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Presumably, both of these parties assume a less knowledgeable addition to the current electorate will be in their favour. With the economically naive utterings of Miliband at the Labour conference, perhaps he should be considering enfranchisement for those even younger. An age below which voters might still believe in the tooth fairy might well be appropriate.

From: Terry Duncan, Greame Road, Bridlington.

DAVID Cameron refuses a face-to-face debate with SNP leader Alex Salmond on next year’s vote on Scotland wrestling its grip from English control. Surely Scots worldwide and not only in Scotland – where the vote is only open to all races, including English, because they reside there – should be allowed a public discussion.

Tour de France
means business

From: Rebecca Taylor, Lib Dem MEP for Yorkshire and the Humber.

I NOTE the recent speculation about the Tour de France (Yorkshire Post, September 24).

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

It will be a time when the whole world will be watching and seeing just what there is on offer here in Yorkshire. Figures vary on just how many people will come to the Tour and how much of a financial boost it will bring, but undoubtedly we are talking big numbers. I would urge all businesses and towns across Yorkshire to seize the opportunities that lie ahead.

Welcome to Yorkshire is touring the area now, letting businesses and others know what they can do to benefit. Don’t miss out – get the wheels in motion now.