Even though voting is not compulsory in any UK or Scottish elections, people who have the right to vote have the responsibility to use that vote.

 
People who do not vote do are being hypocritical if they then criticise the government

 
Millions have died worldwide fighting for the vote and out of respect for their struggle and sacrifice, we should use ours.

 
If few people bother to vote then this might allow extremist parties (representing a very small number of people) to get into power.

 
• Even if none of the candidates are perfect, there is always a better choice

 
• Voting gives you a say on important issues that affect you: jobs, education, healthcare, climate change, crime… the list is almost endless.

 
• Voting is simple and there are lots of ways to cast your vote – there is no excuse!

 
• Every vote counts – some elections have been decided by just a few hundred votes and without your one vote, an important race could be lost.

 
Governments must answer to the people on a regular basis. If nobody bothered voting, government may not act in our best interests.