Tories tackle young voters' apathy

Politics has been seen as a turn-off by the young

School students are to be encouraged to contribute to the policy-making process of the Conservative party.

In an attempt to address the political apathy of the young, Charles Hendry, Shadow Minister for Young People, will invite secondary schools to take part in monthly online surveys on topical issues.

"It is essential that we show students at school and college that we value their opinions," says Mr Hendry.

Charles Hendry says politicians need to show that they are listening

The responses to the e-mail survey will feed into the party's setting of policy for the next general election.

And the scheme is being presented as "the most comprehensive database ever established by a political party to involve young people in the development of policy".

"Every week we read stories about young people's disaffection with politics and politicians," says Mr Hendry.

"Part of the problem is that politicians do not spend enough time to listening to young people and understanding the problems they face."

'Not party politics'

The schools project, to be announced on Wednesday, will survey opinions on topics such as crime, education, facilities for young people and transport.

The Conservative party already sends the survey and a monthly political news update to 4,000 voluntary organisations working with young people.

"It shows how the party is embracing new methods of communications and our determination to use new technology to involve people in political debate," Mr Hendry will say.

"The intention is to look at issues as factually as possible and not to draw the students into party politics."

The project comes amid widespread concern at the apparent lack of interest in politics among the young.

According to the Electoral Commission, only 39% of under-24 year olds used their vote at the last general election.

And there have been surveys suggesting that younger people are particularly disaffected with the political process.