Overview

This bill aims to make it easier for British citizens living overseas to vote in UK parliamentary elections. It removes restrictions on voting based on length of time spent abroad, mandates the Electoral Commission to help register overseas voters, and introduces internet voting with safeguards against fraud.

Description

The Overseas Voters Bill introduces several key changes to the UK electoral system:

• Facilitating Overseas Voter Registration: The Electoral Commission is tasked with identifying and assisting British citizens abroad eligible to vote.
• Removing Residency Restrictions: The bill eliminates any time limit on residency abroad for eligibility to register and vote.
• Introducing Internet Voting: The Secretary of State must create regulations to enable internet voting for registered overseas voters. These regulations will include measures to prevent fraud and ensure only eligible individuals can vote. The regulations require parliamentary approval.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't specify any direct government spending figures. However, implementing internet voting and supporting the Electoral Commission's new duties will likely incur costs. The exact amount remains to be determined.

Groups Affected

The bill primarily affects:

• British citizens living overseas: This group will benefit from easier registration and the option of internet voting.
• The Electoral Commission: The Commission will have new responsibilities for identifying and assisting overseas voters.
• The UK Government: The government will be responsible for funding the implementation of the bill's provisions and overseeing the creation of internet voting regulations.

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