VOTES for 16 and 17 year olds at all Scottish elections has moved a step closer.
MSPs voted at stage one of allowing them the vote in Holyrood and council elections from next year.
Labour and the SNP backed the move following the franchise being extended for last year's independence referendum.
The Bill was passed unanimously at the first stage in the Scottish Parliament.
Labour MSP Jackie Baillie said: "I believe that no debate about the future of our country should take place without the future of our country being involved.
"The energy, the interest and the sheer dynamism that 16 and 17 year olds brought to the referendum debate shows exactly why they should be allowed to vote."
The SNP said it was fair 16 and 17 year olds should vote.
Rob Gibson SNP MSP said: "Sixteen- and 17-year-olds can pay taxes, get married and join the armed forces, so it is only right and fair that they should also be entitled to vote."
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