29 February 2008
Professor Jonathan Tonge was announced as chair of the new Youth Citizenship Commission today (29 February 2008).
The Governance of Britain green paper published last year highlighted the importance of engaging young people as citizens, so they are able to take an active part in society.
The Youth Citizenship Commission will focus on young people aged 11 to 19. It will:
- Examine what citizenship means to young people.
- Consider how to increase young people's participation in politics; the development of citizenship among disadvantaged groups; how active citizenship can be promoted through volunteering and community engagement.
- Lead a consultation on whether the voting age should be lowered to 16.
Jack Straw, Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice, said:
'The transition to adult citizenship is an important life step. It is the stage when young people acquire the right to vote and become eligible to take on a wider range of responsibilities in society. It is essential we engage with young people to encourage their participation in politics and active citizenship in the community.
'Professor Jonathan Tonge is an excellent choice to lead the work of the Youth Citizenship Commission and I look forward to receiving its recommendations.'
Professor Tonge said:
'Helping young citizens engage fully with their community and political system is one of the most important challenges in contemporary Britain. I am delighted and honoured to be asked to chair the Youth Citizenship Commission, which will be at the forefront of efforts to connect youngsters with today's politics and society.'
To unlock the talent of young leaders, the Department for Children, Schools and Families has today announced £6 million to encourage more young people to develop and use their leadership skills to benefit their communities.
Notes to editors
1. Jonathan Tonge is Professor of Politics at the University of Liverpool. He is Chair of the Political Studies Association of the United Kingdom, the representative organisation for politics academics. Professor Tonge was until recently co-convenor of the Elections, Public Opinion and Parties research group and sits on the editorial boards of 'Parliamentary Affairs', 'Politics Review' and 'Irish Political Studies'. Professor Tonge has written extensively on various aspects of UK politics and has co-edited studies of the last three general elections. He has recently published four books on the Northern Ireland peace process, along with numerous journal articles and is a regular television and radio broadcaster.
2. The Governance of Britain green paper was published July 2007.
3. The commission will take account of the forthcoming report of Lord Goldsmith's citizenship review, including its consideration of the role of citizenship ceremonies. It will report to the Prime Minister and the Secretary of State for Justice in Spring 2009. Bridget Prentice, the Minister with responsibility for elections and youth democratic engagement, will act as a sponsor within government for the Commission's work.
4. For more information, contact the Ministry of Justice Press Office on 020 7210 1476.