re: UK parliament one step closer to passing landmark smoking ban

quote:

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We say that, but heck, the government here unilaterally moved tobacco age from 18 to 21 and nobody really said a word.

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Because people aged 18-21 don't show up to the polls. The people that do pay attention and vote were unimpacted.


Reminds me of my favorite dialogue from the movie "Ides of March" when they're discussing policy and campaign speeches:

quote:

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GOV. MORRIS (CONT'D)
Yeah I said it all here, "It's going to help people get an education...it's going to create national unity...it's going to teach young people a trade...and it's going to help get people out of debt from college loans. Tell me where that fails.

STEPHEN
All of that is exactly right...Governor if you're going to do it...then do it. Don't make it voluntary...mandatory.

GOV. MORRIS
That'll poll well.

STEPHEN
Mandatory!...everyone who graduates high school or turns eighteen, gives two years to his or her country. Military...peace corps...plant fricking trees, I don't care...and for that...their college education is paid for...period.

GOV. MORRIS
We do all of that now, with this...

STEPHEN
No sir you don't...do it all...all the way. Mandatory.

....

STEPHEN
And here's the beauty of it...everyone who is older than eighteen and past the age of eligibility, would be for it...create national pride...give all the kids an education.

GOV. MORRIS
And all the others?

STEPHEN
Can't vote. Too young.

This sits with them. Some start to smile.

STEPHEN (CONT'D)
You can't lose.

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This is why I think legislation making driving tests much more comprehensive and difficult to pass for 16 year olds would pass. Makes roads safer, makes kids safer, eventually drives down insurance rates, etc. And the people who would be the most pissed off are too young to vote.