INVERCLYDE MP Iain McKenzie visited students at Notre Dame High, and said he was encouraged by their enthusiasm for the lowering of the voting age.

The rules won’t be changed in time for May’s general election, but future polls will allow everyone to vote from the age of 16 instead of 18.

Mr McKenzie said: “I was glad that the government finally followed Labour’s lead when we called for fast-tracking of the devolution of the electoral franchise to the Scottish Parliament. Labour have had a long standing commitment to include young people in politics.

“I supported votes for 16-year-olds before the referendum. I was thoroughly impressed by the level of engagement among 16 and 17-year-olds with politics, and their grasp of important issues when campaigning in the run-up to September.

“Following the Scottish referendum when 16-year-olds were allowed to vote for the first time, I believe it is right that they are given the right to vote in future elections.” Now he plans to ask the government to consider lowering the age for being able to drive a car.

He said: “If you can vote at 16, then should you not be allowed to hold a driving licence at that age?

“We should also standarise the age at 16 for people being allowed to buy alcohol.” The MP said he would be delighted to hear from any other schools which would like him to visit to speak to their pupils.