In response to a letter from Alliance Leader Naomi Long MLA on the issue, Mr Benn reaffirmed his and the UK Government’s intention to fulfil Labour’s election manifesto promise to extend the franchise to 16 and 17 year olds across the UK for both local and national elections.

Ms Armstrong has said: “The failure to enfranchise young people in our society represents a stark and ongoing democratic deficit in Northern Ireland, and so this commitment from the Secretary of State and the UK Government is incredibly welcome.

“As was especially clear to us at our recent Party Conference and through the contributions from those in Alliance Youth, we have so many intelligent, capable, and politically engaged young people here with fully informed social and political views. They deserve to have their voices heard, and their votes officially counted, on policy that directly impacts their lives.

“However, as was also alluded to by Mr Benn, we’re aware the process to advance all the needed legislation will take time, care, and planning.

“Alliance remains unwavering in its support for votes at 16, and we will continue to do all the engagement needed to secure the rights of our young people to fully participate in the democratic process.”