THE voting age will be lowered to 16-years-old across the UK in time for the next general election, the government has announced.

It will mean that more than one million 16 and 17-year-olds will be eligible to vote.

The charge marks the biggest change to electorate since 1969.

In 1969 the voting age has lowered from 21 to 18-years-old.

The voting age in Scotland and Wales is already 16-years-old.

Labour's election manifesto in 2024 pledged to lower the voting age - in line with the two neighbouring countries.

Democracy Minister Rushanara Ali made the announcement today, Thursday, July 17.

The MP for Bethnal Green and Stepney confirmed the change, as well as a raft of other measures, will be introduced through a new Elections Bill.

Other measures include changes to party donations and expanding acceptable identification.

For example, UK-issued bank cards will become legitimate forms of ID under the plans.