Following a series of tragic accidents involving young people, several well-meaning grieving parents headed by Crystal Owens have come forward with a proposed ban or limitation on under 25s driving at night and driving with friends and peers. While we can appreciate the meaning is to save lives, this proposed ban; which has received media coverage and MP support, is an infringement on the rights of young adults in this country, at a time when we need them the most. 

When it comes to assessing the merits of lawmaking, it's important to weigh the collective benefit against the cost of liberty it would produce. And in this case, the benefits just aren't good enough. At a time when social mobility is at an all time low, when unemployment is rising, when loneliness is rising, and when jobs seem to require more and more travel distance, having the ability to drive a car without unreasonable restrictions, and retaining the ability to carshare with friends and colleagues, is a vital lifeline for young people getting in the economy. It is unreasonable to demand the youth be legally penalised for cost-cutting (and helping out the environment) by sharing a vehicle with friends and colleagues, it punishes the many for the actions of a tiny minority, and it can be described as nothing less than an attack on young adults by a group of people who are completely out of touch with the realities of everyday living for under-25s during the cost of living crisis.

Secondly, the proposed driving curfew is a blatant and inappropriate infringement on the freedom of young adults, and could lead to disastrous effects as millions of young people, especially women, are unfairly penalised due to their age, are left with no choice but to walk home alone from parties and social events if they are unable or unwilling to drive and cannot afford public transport, or stay home and not engage in healthy socialisation with friends and coworkers. This law would cause an increase in assaults and attacks on young people, AND an increase of drunk driving. 

The fact that MPs have voiced support for the proposed bill is an insult to their young adult constituents. 

Young Adults have a right to be treated equally before the law and for this proposed bill to be dismissed by Parliament before it can make any progress.

Now is the time for all parties in the house of Commons to stand with the rights of young people and to show them they are a not a parliament dedicated only to the whims of the older generations.

Make your voice heard, sign the petition.