The Labour-controlled Welsh government also wants new voting methods introduced, including the chance to vote in places such as supermarkets, leisure centres and railway stations. Alun Davies, the cabinet secretary for local government and public services, said: “Local democracy is all about participation. We want to boost the numbers registered as electors, make it easier for people to cast their votes and give more people the right to take part.” Under the proposals to be announced this week, 16 and 17-year-olds would be given the right to vote in council elections, along with all foreign nationals legally resident in Wales.
Innovative new voting methods, which reflect people’s busy lives, are to be piloted. As well as taking voting booths to less traditional locations, the government likes the idea of digital voting and mobile polling stations.
Davies said too many people, particularly the young, were disengaged from the political process.
“There are many reasons for this, but we must do more to make the process more attractive, welcoming and transparent. The proposals we’re announcing this week will, we hope, help increase participation and improve the democratic process for everyone in Wales,” he said.
Full Article: Over-16s to get voting rights in some Welsh elections | Politics | The Guardian.