Nicola Sturgeon urges Scots to register to vote
This week marks National Voter Registration week, organised by Bite the Ballot - a group encouraging young people to make their vote count.
In last year’s independence referendum more than 3.6 million people cast a ballot with the voting age lowered to include 16 and 17-year-olds, and the turnout of almost 85per centwas widely praised.
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Hide AdFirst-time voters in the referendum also have to register to vote in the Westminster election and the campaign aims to raise awareness around voter registration all across the UK.
Last year 50,000 people signed up on Voter Registration Day and this year organisers are hoping to reach 250, 000 who are currently not registered.
Ms Sturgeon said it is “vital” that anyone who has not registered should do so as soon as possible as there are now fewer than 100 days until polling day.
She said: “One of the most positive aspects of the referendum campaign was that it re-energised debate and involvement, shaking up the political landscape across Scotland.
“As First Minister I am keen to do everything I can to ensure that the spirit of engagement sparked by the discussion on Scotland’s future continues to blossom.
“Since the record 85per centturnout at the referendum, I have been struck by the number of then first-time voters who have told me they are looking forward to casting their second vote at the general election.
“This is hugely inspiring - and while we will be doing everything we can to persuade them to vote SNP, it is great to see people so enthused by politics.”
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