Report: UK Election Turnout Lowest Since Universal Suffrage
The Facts
According to the London-based Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR), just 52% of British adults voted in the 2024 general election, the lowest turnout since universal suffrage began in 1928.
The IPPR claimed that if non-voters were a political party, it would have received the largest support. The report found that turnout was 11% higher in constituencies with the top decile of over 64-year-olds compared to the lowest decile, and 7% lower in constituencies within the top decile of ethnic minorities compared to the lowest decile.
The Spin
Narrative A
Voter participation matters. If almost half of the adult population doesn't vote, then the other half will make decisions that benefit the already well-off. Political inequality goes hand-in-hand with economic inequality. Labour's promise to introduce election reforms would not only enhance transparency in political funding but also increase voter turnout.
Narrative B
In the 2024 general election, the people voted for change. However, Labour's turn to the right alienated many anti-Conservative voters, who chose not to exercise their right to vote. When the traditional parties turn to the right, it leaves voters disillusioned. Without an alternative, voter turnout is bound to be low.
Narrative C
Lowering the voting age from 18 to 16 is an ill-advised idea. Simply put, it's unethical and premature to allow children to vote because they don't have the right to make informed decisions without their parent's permission. The proposal lands best with Labour's base and benefits the party more than the country.
