Pupils to vote in mock elections

Pupils will have to canvass for votes

Schools across the UK are to take part in a mock general election, backed by the government.

The Y Vote Mock Elections 2005 are aimed at increasing pupils' interest in the workings of politics.

An anticipated 3,000 schools will be sent information packs, including ballot papers and manifesto guides, with elections happening in early May.

Schools Minister Stephen Twigg said engaging young people's interest was "essential" to the future of democracy.

'Motivated'

He added: said "Young people who are engaged and motivated by the political process are essential to the future health of our democracy.

"The mock elections initiative provides an opportunity for pupils to develop their own understanding of how the democratic process works and why it matters.

"By experiencing the election process first hand - from running a campaign to the declaration of the final result - we hope that young people will develop the enthusiasm to take part in the future."

The Hansard Society, the Electoral Commission and the Department for Education and Skills are running the programme.

Pupils will stand as party candidates, speech writers and canvassers.

Michael Raftery, mock elections project manager at the Hansard Society, said: "The Y Vote Mock Elections for schools mirror the excitement and buzz of a real election, raising awareness of citizenship, and the benefits of active democracy."

The mock votes will take place around 5 May, widely expected to be the date of the general election.