Young people are most likely to learn about politics online and want the subject to feature more in schools, along with the law and economics, according to a recent survey.

The poll, carried out by YouGov and commissioned by the Citizenship Foundation to mark its 20th year, investigated nearly 4,000 young people’s attitudes towards political participation, politicians and power in the UK. Far from being apathetic, most of them (64 per cent) intend to vote when they are able to.

The recession is the issue which has sparked most young people’s increased interest in politics, the poll found, suggesting that they are sensitive to current affairs. The wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, and the Westminster MPs’ expenses scandal, came a close joint second in growing their interest.

The majority surveyed - 67 per cent - do not trust Westminster’s politicians. However, despite their dim view and given the chance, young people would not vote for charities or celebrities to lead the country.