Should voting be compulsory?

Debate: Should voting should be compulsory.

17:15 – 17:30 Arrive

17:30 – 17:35 Welcome – GK Strategy & IHAV

17:35 – 17:45 Kim Leadbeater MP for Batley and Spen

Leadbeater did not have a traditional route into politics. She grew up in West Yorkshire and has a degree in health-related exercise and fitness from Leeds Beckett University and a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) from the University of Huddersfield. She was a lecturer in physical health at Bradford College. She still lives in West Yorkshire with her partner Claire. In 2018, she was awarded the UK's 100th Points of Light award by the Prime Minister for having "rejected the hate that marked [her] sister's murder to continue Jo's work and ensure that Jo's determination to change the world has lived on."

She is a member of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Political Literacy. A forum to discuss the current provision of citizenship and political education (in schools, further and higher education) and to explore how best to further strengthen political literacy education so that young people regardless of background, can play an informed, active role as citizens in our democracy.

17:45 – 17:55 Lizzie Lawless, The Electoral Reform Society

The Electoral Reform Society operates on a simple premise – that politics can be better than it is. It is advocating for a democracy fit for the 21st century, where every voice is heard, every vote is valued equally, and every citizen is empowered to take part. It wants to: see lasting political reforms; embed democracy into the heart of public debate; and foster democratic spaces which encourage active citizenship. Lizzie holds a degree in Politics from Royal Holloway, University of London.

17:55 – 18:05 Scott Dodsworth, Managing Director at GK Strategy

Scott will provide insight on compulsory voting in other countries. There is some form of compulsion in 27 countries, including Australia, Luxembourg and Singapore. These provide a basis for the UK to assess the potential pros and cons of compulsion.

Scott has a wealth of experience in public affairs and government relations working in both agency and in-house roles.

18:05 – 18:30 Q&A chaired by IHAV

18:30 – 19:00 You’re invited to hangout and catch-up with one another – refreshments will be provided.