CONSERVATIVES Abroad does not appear to have a lower age limit on membership, in fact people under 26 are encouraged to join by a reduced membership fee and it seems there are no age restrictions on members’ voting rights (Tory membership loophole could see next prime minister decided by ‘non-British’ citizens, July 23).
With a few historical exceptions, voting in UK elections and referendums is restricted to resident citizens who are at least 18 years old.
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That’s the Tory version of democracy – anyone, anywhere can effectively buy a vote in elections for Tory prime ministers by donating a few pounds to the Tory party.
In Scotland the First Minister is selected by the Scottish Parliament that allows anyone over 16 and resident in Scotland to vote in all its elections and referendums.
John Jamieson
South Queensferry
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We know there are thousands of National readers who want to debate, argue and go back and forth in the comments section of our stories. We’ve got the most informed readers in Scotland, asking each other the big questions about the future of our country.
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Callum Baird, Editor of The National
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