Assembly Committee backs right to vote for prisoners

Credit: PA

Prisoners in Wales should have the right to vote, according to a National Assembly committee.

The majority of Equality, Local Government and Communities Committee backed a recommendation for inmates serving less than four years to have the right to vote in devolved Welsh elections.

The change was supported for devolved Welsh elections.

A similar recommendation for 16-17-year-olds in custody to have the right to vote, if the voting age is lowered in Wales, was also supported by the majority.

The Chair of the Equality, Local Government and Communities Committee said the inquiry had tried to consider all sides.

The suggestion has faced criticism from those representing victims.

The move has faced criticism, however, Baroness Newlove - the Victims Commissioner for England and Wales - disagreed with the recommendation.

The report will now be considered by the Welsh Government, Assembly Members and the National Assembly for Wales Commission.

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