Dr Ben Spencer

Dr Ben Spencer

Conservative — Runnymede and Weybridge

Speaking in the House of Commons on 2 March 2026

Debate

Representation of the People Bill

Contribution

The point the hon. Member makes illustrates exactly why we have to use an adult citizenship criteria, not one based on capability or ability, because the moment we start to do that, all sorts of awful things risk happening. People should get the right to vote in the UK if they are a citizen and if they are an adult, and that is it. We should never put at risk someone’s right to vote because of considerations about their cognitive ability, and that goes in both directions. People should be careful what they wish for in making arguments to remove adult status and citizenship from voter enfranchisement. They may not like where they end up.

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