Have you just turned 18?

Now you've turned 18 you are able to vote for the people that you want to represent you.

You will be able to do this in three ways:

During the local elections you can vote for your local Councillor
In the general election you can vote for your local MP (Member of Parliament)
In the European elections you can vote for your regional MEPs (Members of European Parliament)

Your MP works in Parliament and makes decisions that affect people like you across the UK. This could be anything from fox hunting to smoking in public places.

Your MP can also find out more information for you on some Government policies (like Animal Testing) or put forward your views to those who make the decisions.

Elections work best when everyone takes part and votes. If you don't vote, you are having no say in issues as important as the NHS, schools, how much tax your pay and how we look after the environment.

For more information on MPs and Councillors click here

The following websites provide more information if you want to find out more about politics and how you can register to vote:

Explore Parliament

Epolitix.com – the latest political news

For more news items, please click here