I AM a 16-year-old and therefore cannot vote, but the outcome of this referendum will undoubtedly affect the future of young people such as myself. Our world is becoming more and more globalized, and staying in will mean that the UK continues to have a great deal of influence in the world’s largest trading block. This means we can take action together on issues that will directly impact my generation such as climate change. Furthermore, I think that we have neglected the needs of other EU citizens in this debate. Leaving can only jeopardize the development of previous Communist states in Eastern Europe, which have benefited immensely from EU membership. A leave vote would also destabilize European relations. Turning a blind eye to the impacts of a Brexit on young people here and abroad is simply not the answer.

Joanna Henney

Ilkley