The Scottish Government are seeking the views of the public as they look to reform the electoral system in Scotland.
A number of reforms are being considered including expanding candidacy rights to 16 and 17 year olds, following the lowering of the voting age. They are also seeking the views on how best to encourage those who are eligible to register to vote.
Minister for Parliamentary Business George Adam said: “A robust electoral system is fundamental to the success of Scotland being an inclusive and vibrant democracy that makes everyone feel included and empowered.
“It is important as many people in our society as possible feel they have an effective and independent means to hold government to account and also feel encouraged take an active interest in politics and civic life.
“The measures set out in this consultation are wide-ranging and include key questions on how best to improve the accessibility of elections and to promote electoral registration. We will consider all responses very carefully before deciding on our next steps.”
Among the other proposals in the consultation is extending candidacy rights to foreign nationals who already have the right to vote and measures to improve the accessibility of voting, including for those with sight lose.
The full paper on the consultation can be read at https://www.gov.scot/publications/electoral-reform-consultation/
To take part in the consultation visit https://consult.gov.scot/constitution-and-cabinet/electoral-reform/