Sarah Coles, Head of Personal Finance at Hargreaves Lansdown, comments on what the younger generation would like to see happen as a result of the general election.

When Hargreaves Lansdown asked people aged 18-34 which policies were most likely to make them vote for a party, 22% said it was more generous benefits. In joint second position (21%) were cutting income tax, cutting council tax and more help with childcare. Only 16% were attracted by the idea of keeping the triple lock on the state pension – while one in ten said it would actually make them less likely to vote for a party.

Sarah Coles, Head of Personal Finance at Hargreaves Lansdown:

When we asked younger people about the policies most likely to attract their vote, cutting income tax was a popular option, so the lower National Insurance on offer from the Conservatives could make a difference. Unfortunately, the fact that neither Labour or the Conservatives have mentioned the frozen income tax thresholds means they’re highly likely to stay. As a result, over time, more people will be pushed into paying more income tax as they get pay rises.

Younger voters are also keen on cutting council tax, and while neither of the main parties is offering this, both have now ruled out rebanding, and the Conservatives have promised no changes to discounts. These discounts benefit students, so this will be welcome news. However, those who’ve finished their studies and are living alone are likely to be unimpressed that they still have to pay three quarters of the council tax of a couple living together.

More help with childcare was also a popular measure, and both the main parties have made pledges. The Conservatives have emphasised the continued roll-out of free childcare for children aged nine-months and over. In reality, this is likely to remain in place regardless of who is elected, because it has been factored into the costings. In addition, Labour is promising free breakfast clubs in all primary schools – for all children.

Full release: What young people want from the election – and what they might get

✉️ Sarah Coles, Hargreaves Lansdown, 01275 790 129 / sarah.coles@hl.co.uk