YOUNG people discussed lowering the voting age to 16 at a lively debate of Pembrokeshire and Carmarthenshire’s UK Youth Parliament.

Simon Hart MP was at the meeting where a wide range of topics were debated including why they believe 16 and 17-year-olds should get the vote.

After the meeting, Mr Hart said: “I am genuinely open-minded about whether now is the right time for a reduction in the voting age, and the discussion this certainly helped.

“It is important that young people actively engage in politics so they can become our leaders of tomorrow. It was refreshing to hear such engaging and thoughtful debate and I am sure that the two counties are in capable hands with these representatives.

“Even though there are no imminent changes I don't see this as an issue that I would vote to prevent. However I did stress to the members of the Youth Parliaments that if this does happen it won't solve all of our problems overnight."

Mr Hart is now planning on meeting with each Youth Parliament later this year to continue the debate.

Pictured from left to right are Keeley McGauley from Carmarthen, Gwen Griffiths from Pembrey, Caity Nutting from Pembroke and Joshua Beynon who lives in Pembroke Dock and who was on work experience in Mr Hart’s office.