The reforms proposed for inclusion in this Bill are important in ensuring that the Assembly's role, its processes and its electoral arrangements are clear. In particular, I welcome the proposal to extend the franchise for voting in Assembly elections to 16 and 17-year-olds. Unlike Gareth Bennett, I think 16 to 17-year-olds are perfectly capable of exercising that level of democratic engagement.

I commend the Commission's aim to empower, engage and enthuse young people to participate in the democratic processes in Wales. This Government has long advocated the involvement of young people in the democratic process, which is essential to achieving a vibrant democracy. Within our own forthcoming local government and elections Bill, we will include provisions to allow 16 and 17-year-olds the right to vote in local elections.

Sixteen-year-olds can legally undertake a multiplicity of activities, so it's right and it's just that we allow them also a voice to speak up and vote on matters that affect them, just as they affect everybody else.